A cat was today recovering after young thugs strapped a firework to his back and set it off - in an apparent "copycat" crime.
Two-year-old Teddy was found cowering under a bush with carpet tape wrapped around burn marks, revealed owner Kathie Osborne.
The prank is almost identical to one in last night's script of popular TV soap Emmerdale.
Horror - Jade Osbourne with firework victim Teddy Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY
Kathie told today how Teddy disappeared and failed to return home.
The mum, of Glenhurst Road, Southend, eventually found the ginger and white tom cat in her garden.
She said: "When we took the tape off we saw his fur was all singed and burnt and we realised he must have had a firework tied to him."
She added: "We could hardly believe that anyone could do such a thing.
"He wasn't too badly hurt but it could have been much worse."
An RSPCA spokeswoman said: "We do find an increase in this type of incident at this time of year. It is appalling that people should carry out such mindless attacks."
Published Wednesday October 30, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article