We are delighted to announce Speedy as the winner of our Rescue Cat Awards 2008, sponsored by Purina PetCare.

The two-year-old tabby cat from Suffolk scooped the overall award for the constant companionship she provides to her owner, Christine Payne, who suffers with a range of conditions including progressive spinal ataxia, epilepsy and severe learning difficulties.

Speedy, along with four other winners were announced on 1 August 2008 during an awards ceremony at The Pharaohs’ Palace Hospitality Suite, which is part of the Tutankhamun Exhibition in London’s prestigious O2 Arena.

The awards were open to any living cat in the UK, rescued as a stray by owners, or adopted from any animal rescue organisation. We were overwhelmed with your feline stories of heroism, survival, companionship and bravery, so thank you for nominating your feline friend into the Rescue Cat Awards 2008.

Cats Protection's Rescue Cat Awards 2008 is sponsored by Purina PetCare.