FANTASTIC feline Jack is in line for the cat world's equivalent of an Oscar after surviving terrible burns.

Jack was set on fire by twisted young sadists, and was in intensive care for a week as vets fought to save his life.

Five months on Jack has made a full recovery, and is pictured at home with his new owner Jean Hancock, from Avon Court, Alsager.

He was taken in by Alsager Animals in Need, who put him forward for a so-called lifetime achievement award.

The national award is given by the makers of Arthur's cat food, and Jack's amazing story of survival has won him a place in the final.

"Jack had been sprayed with lighter fuel, and his top coat was completely burnt away after a cigarette was stubbed out on his head," said Hilary Baxter from Alsager Animals in Need.

"It was appalling, and he was in terrible pain. His feet were like jelly tots because of the burns, and he was in bandages for a month.

"I'm amazed he had made such a wonderful recovery, and I put him forward for the award because I felt he deserved recognition for his determination to survive."

Some two thousand cats were entered in the competition, with the winner due to receive a £1,000 cash prize, a gold trophy and a year's supply of Arthur's cat food.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.