A BELOVED family cat was abducted from outside his Bushey home on Sunday afternoon.

Black and white Toby, who was wearing a collar and tag displaying his name and owners' telephone number, was snatched by a man and driven off in a white car shortly before 3pm in Bournehall Lane.

His owner, who did not wish to be named, said: "He is the friendliest cat and very trusting.

"Everyone in our street knows him and strokes him regularly.

"My 18-year-old son saw a man pick him up, walk to the car and drive off down the road towards Bourne Road from his bedroom window but by the time he came down, they were gone."

The family are appealing for anyone who witnessed the catnapping or has information on Toby's whereabouts to contact the police. on 01707 638102.

A rise in the number of stolen cats from the Watford area over recent weeks has prompted police to warn people to be vigilant, report suspicious behaviour and to note details, such as the car registrations, of suspects

July 2, 2002 16:30