A RETIRED couple are cat-minding following the rescue of a stray kitten which became stranded on their roof.

The young grey moggy was brought to safety by firefighters from the ridge of the roof on George and Irene Clarkson's bungalow in Belmont, Durham.

George said Irene spotted the cat on Tuesday morning and several neighbours called to tell them it was still there later in the day.

It was brought to the attention of a team of firefighters, who were checking fire hydrants.

They brought in an aerial ladder crew to reach the kitten, but it was eventually brought down by another firefighter, using step ladders.

George and Irene, former cat owners, have agreed to look after the kitten, at least temporarily.

But they have posted notices in shops to trace the owners.

"It's a beautiful young cat. It looks like it's been well looked after and it doesn't seem like it's been kicked out," said George.

"We are letting it roam round the house, but we don't want to let it out in case it disappears again.

"We haven't a clue how it got up on to the roof, because it's quite a sheer climb, but it may have been while it was chasing or being chased."

Anyone who knows the identity of the kitten's owners is asked to contact the Clarksons, on 0191-384 0249.