FANTASTIC felines took centre stage at a prestigious cat show in Wroughton this weekend.

Animal-lovers flocked to the Ellendune Centre for the Southern & South Western Birman Cat Club’s seventh championship show.

The purr-fect cats were judged on characteristics such as colour patterns, nose width, coat quality and fluffiness, along with general temperament.

Birmans are known for their loyal, loving natures, loud vocals, lion-esque manes, and watercolour markings in hues such as red, lilac, blue, and tabby,

Cat champions were awarded bright rosettes and trophies in honour of their achievements.

Jenny Nutley from Salisbury is the proud owner of 10 cats. Her red point Birman Rosie and blue point Mr Tibbles were prize winners at the show.

She said: “I’ve had cats ever since I was a child, I just love them. I think Birmans are absolutely beautiful. They are almost like dogs, so loving, loyal, they follow you around the house and they are always chirping away.

“I feel very proud that my Birmans have won awards, it’s always a very exciting feeling to be at a show and meet other people who love cats.”

There was even a household pet category for non-pedigree cats which saw tabby Tiny Spice take the cat crown for Best in Class.

His proud owner Jo Gummery from Worcester brought along six of her pretty kitties to the show.

Jo owns 13 cats including tortoiseshell Pumpkin Spice who has an extra thumb on each paw.

She said: “I’m really enjoying being here today. I feel incredibly lucky that we can show our cats here. They have all been very patient and well-behaved and it’d always a great atmosphere here.

“I feel very proud of all of them, they are my babies so it’s lovely to be here.”

Jo is also training her multi-talented cats to sit and ask for treats.

Show manager Jackie Pell said she was delighted with the reception to the event.

She said: “Cats are very emotional and sensitive creatures. They always seem to know if something is wrong with you and form such a strong bond with their owners. That’s why it is so fantastic to see them all at the show.

“The Birmans have lovely calm temperaments and the judges have been very impressed so far.”