AN elderly cat has been reunited with his owner - 12 years after going missing!

Riverside Veterinary Service on Southend Road in Grays has revealed the story of ginger cat Firkin, who was taken there by a member of the public who had been feeding him, but was concerned about the feline's health.

On examination at Riverside a microchip was discovered, and it revealed he had been reported missing by his owner in 2013.

His owner confirmed he was now 16 years old but has had no idea where he has been all this time and was overjoyed to finally be reunited!

A spokesperson for Riverside said: "This highlights the importance of microchipping and keeping contact details up to date and if any stray cat is found hanging around for a period of time it is a good idea to get a rescue or vet to scan for a microchip to find the owner.

"Please note it is now a legal requirement for all cats to be microchipped at five months of age.

"We are pleased to say Firkin is on the mend slowly and will hopefully make a full recovery."