Missing cat returned from Glasgow after being found 500 miles from Isle of Wight home

Zara Ellis was left distraught after her adorable cat Lucy, a seven-year-old black cat, vanished on October 20.

She and her family had almost given up hope of finding her - but has now been reunited with her pet after a Christmas miracle.

It's thought Lucy had managed to stow away on the back of one of Zara's old neighbours' horsebox when they made the move north to Scotland. 

Cat Lucy being returned home

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Weeks past without any news, but eventually the adorable cat was found tucked away in a barn on the Isle of Lismore - to the surprise of Zara and her family.

Glasgow is the closest airport to where Lucy was found, making it the obvious choice to stage a rescue mission and, upon hearing the story, airline Flybe were more than happy to help.

Zara, who welcomed the intrepid kitty just across the solent at Southampton Airport with her daughter, said: "She is now home and quite frankly, delighted.

"She is already back in her usual spot and seems quite determined not to leave it. 

"She is officially grounded! No more adventures for this cat for a while.”

Zara Ellis and her daughter reunited with Lucy

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A spokesperson for Flybe said: "After a tip-off from local paper the Isle of Wight Observer, we were only too happy to help and, with the support of our airport and cargo partners, we hatched a plan to fly Lucy home in time for Christmas.

"Everything went ‘purr-fectly’ on the day and we were thrilled to play a part in what was a wonderfully happy family reunion.”

Zara, commenting on Flybe's efforts to return her cat, added: “Thank you so much for all your help in rescuing Lucy on what really was an epic trip for her!

"It all went as smoothly as we could ever possibly have hoped."