A CAT “kicked like a football” by drunken yobs on the vandal-hit Coppice is said to be on the road to recovery.
The ginger, black and white cat named Chloe was found under a bush by its owner Harold Entwistle two days after it went missing.
The pensioner, of Lodge Street, Accrington, was so appalled at the injuries his beloved cat received he has called on the police to act before something more serious happens.
Police have now said they will call a residents’ meeting to discuss recent problems on The Coppice.
Mr Entwistle said: “The vet has told me that Chloe has to stay confined to a cage for six weeks in order not to injure herself further.
“Even though she is recovering, it has not been as quick as the vet would have liked.”
When Mr Entwistle initially found his cat he thought she had been run over by a car. It wasn’t until he rushed her to the vet that he was told differently.
The vet instantly recognised that her injuries, including severe bruising to her entire body and her ribs ripped away from her breastbone, were caused by being kicked about.
Mr Entwistle said: “I don’t understand how somebody could have done this, it’s disgusting. I’m just glad she is doing well and that we have not had to put her down.”
The Coppice and Huncoat PCSO Paul Crossland said: “After discussing this anti-social behaviour with Mr Entwistle, I will be working alongside my colleagues in the Peel area and organising a neighbourhood meeting for residents to discuss issues and concerns.
“I would urge residents to attend the meeting because we all need to work together if we are going to come up with long-term solutions.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind parents it is their responsibility to know where their children are and what they are doing.
“Warnings and fixed penalties have been issued and will continue to be given until these problems are cleared up.”
Residents will be informed of the date and venue of the meeting when it has been decided.
