A tiny kitten is enjoying a life of luxury, after being discovered in the bottom of a Carlisle skip.

The cat, thought to be just six-weeks-old, was all alone and covered in rubbish.

He was fortunately discovered by workers at a Carlisle waste facility who, after checking there was no mother around, took him to the vets.

Staff at Eden Veterinary Centre gave him a clean-up and a full medical check-over, before giving him a clean bill of health.

The kitten, now named Skippy, was then handed into the care of the Wetheral-based Oak Tree Animals’ Charity, who are now working to find him a permanent home.

However, because of his age, he is currently being fostered to gain experience of humans and home comforts.

Caroline Johnson, general manager at the charity, said: “We are pleased to be able to help Skippy recover from his experience and get the best start to his new life.

"Should you find a young kitten alone, Oak Tree would advise you to check that no mother is around looking after the kitten, and then, contact us so we can offer advice and get the kitten the most appropriate help.”

For more information about Oak Tree Animals’ Charity’s fostering programme, and how you can help animals like Skippy, visit www.oaktreeanimals.org.uk or email info@oaktreeanimals.org.uk