CAT owners in York are being given the chance to have their moggie immortalised as part of the city’s feline trail.

Shambles-based York Glass, the creators of the York Cat Trail, are searching for a lucky cat which can be used as a subject for their sculptor who is to create the new work to add to the existing 16 cat statues perched on the outside of city centre buildings.

The original statues were placed on York’s old buildings to frighten away rats and mice, which might carry plague and disease. They were also thought to ward off wandering evil spirits and to generally bestow good luck and good health on the inhabitants. They have since become part of the tourist trail.

John Hopkinson, of York Glass, said: “We are looking for a cat preferably with a gentle disposition with a tale to tell.

“It might have survived an horrendous accident, been trapped and escaped, or indeed might be lucky for any number of reasons.”

If you feel that you may have a suitable model, you can email enquiries@yorkluckycats.co.uk or call in at their Shambles-based shop.

The lucky owners will be invited to unveil the finished statue at a ceremony at its new location – as yet to be revealed.