Two North Yorkshire black cats have waited for adoption for 11 months, becoming the longest-staying residents at their rescue centre.

Flash and Archie, the pair of black felines residing at the RSPCA's Great Ayton Animal Centre, are approaching their one-year anniversary without finding a forever home.

The cats were found in a neglected state at a property in County Durham last September, together with eight other cats, living in inadequate conditions.

Remarkably, with the diligent rehabilitation efforts of the centre's staff and volunteers, both Flash and Archie have learned to trust humans again and now enjoy attention and cuddles.

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However, despite their progress, potential adopters have shown little to no interest.

(Image: RSPCA)

Black cats like Flash and Archie often face longer stays at rescue centres, as they are frequently overlooked in favour of more 'popular' grey tabby cats.

The RSPCA revealed that it typically takes 29 days to rehome a black cat, in stark contrast to the average nine days it takes to home their grey counterparts with some attributing this to superstition.

Flash hasn't had anyone come to visit her, and although Archie had one potential adopter visit, they chose a different cat.

Flash is believed to be around two years old and would prefer to be the only pet in a home with older children.

On the other hand, Archie, who is around ten, will require a calm and patient adopter in a pet-free and adult-only environment.

(Image: RSPCA)

Cattery supervisor Beverley Dunn said: "Flash and Archie were living in a multi-cat household, it was very much a free-for-all all, and as a result, they were under-socialised and very wary of humans.

"She's an amazing girl who really enjoys a fuss and a cuddle.

"Archie is a shy but sweet boy.

"They both really deserve the opportunity to thrive and enjoy life in their own homes and we’d encourage anyone who has been moved by their story to get in touch with the centre."