A lucky cat who survived life threatening injuries by a whisker and won the hearts of Gravesham residents is preparing to live out the rest of his nine lives in a loving new home.

Oliver was found by Raphael Road resident, Penny Lloyd, on death's door with a broken jaw and his lip torn away from his face so brutally it had turned black.

The animal-lover, who had been feeding the stray regularly, took the moggy to Shrubbery Vets in Northfleet on April 1 before contacting animal sanctuary Anim-Mates, based in St Mary Hoo near Rochester with news of his plight.

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Oliver after treatment

Following three operations and a two-month stay at the vets little Oliver has secured a cosy spot in the home of a Bromley family.

Anim-Mates honourable secretary, Dennis White said: "Oliver will soon go to his new home in Bromley where a family are eagerly awaiting his arrival.

"He will go to live with a young family in a beautiful huge house with garden in Bromley, with two family members at home all the time so plenty of cuddles are guaranteed for him and he will get spoiled rotten.

"They have also promised us Oliver updates in future."

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Oliver before treatment

Staff at the sanctuary, run by Teresa Bloomfield, posted a plea on Facebook to help find donors to pay for Oliver's treatment.

Mr White added: "Within four days nearly 200 donations totaling £3,264 arrived to help with his vet bills.

"Donations came in from the UK, Sweden, USA and Australia.

"We've yet to have a couple of bills from the vets, but are confident that the donations will almost cover them."

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"This is certainly something special "When we first posted it on Facebook it went mad, people were just sharing it and sharing it.

"I have emailed every donor personally to let them know how grateful we are."