A couple are celebrating a 'Christmas miracle' after they were reunited with their pet cat that went missing more than six years ago.
Husband and wife John Kinloch and Jude Corr, from the Isle of Sheppey, Kent, UK, hadn't seen Tabs since he disappeared as they were preparing to move house in February 2013.
Ever since, the couple have been distraught about their missing pet, until on Christmas Eve, when they received a phone call from a volunteer at an animal charity who found a chip in the 'emaciated' cat revealing his name and owner's telephone number.
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Prison worker Jude, 53, said: "We couldn't believe it when we got the phone call.
"I thought it was some kind of prank at first. Then when she said the cat's name, Tabs, I knew it wasn't.
"My husband hasn't stopped crying since. He was looking at Tabs on his tablet the other day. He still has her on it as his screensaver. He has never changed it.
"It was like he had been reunited with his best friend."
Tabs - who is now 19 - was first spotted by mum-of-three Lisa Jones as she was walking home on Christmas Eve. As an animal lover, she couldn't bear to leave Tabs on the street in such a sorry state, so she took him home with her and gave him a wash and some food.
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The 32-year-old said: "I was walking home after buying a toy for my daughter and I just saw this cat at the end of my road looking really matted, skinny and poorly.
"I thought, you know what, that cat needs looking after. I used to be homeless myself. I wouldn't wish it on anyone, because I know what it's like.
"I'm such a soft touch when it comes to animals. I have saved a mouse and even a pigeon before."
Lisa originally thought she might provide a permanent home for Tabs, but after calling Kent's Animals Lost and Found charity, they were able to track down owners John and Jude using Tabs' chip.
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Lisa added: "My daughter said to me, 'mum, you must have just made someone's Christmas'. I'm just so happy that he is happy and at home."
After receiving the call from the shelter, the couple drove straight over to collect Tabs and they were over the moon to be reunited with their long last feline.
Jude said: "We got the call at about 8pm. I just couldn't believe it. I've never seen an animal so emaciated and skinny. It's pitiful.
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"His spine was protruding from his back, his hair was really matted and he had sores all over his body. We could still recognise his face, even though it was a lot skinnier.
"At 19 years old he's done well to still be alive, especially given when he has been through.
"How he has survived, I just have no idea. Maybe he was waiting to see us again. It is just amazing. It really is a Christmas miracle."
Featured Image Credit: SWNS