A grandfather has been left devastated after his beloved cat was mauled to death by a "dangerous" dog in Horton Kirby.

Garden designer Stephan Roussounis was working overnight in his studio in Carleton Way when he heard a noise outside.

He went outside to see what was going on, and claims he found an Akita dog standing over the dead body of 18-year-old moggy, Charlie.

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Stephan Roussounis

The grandfather-of-two, who rents out his former home in the road but uses the summer house to run business Garden Idyll, told News Shopper of the horrific moment he realised his cat had been killed just before 4am on August 9.

He said: "I heard a noisy disturbance in the garden and ran out to find an Akita dog standing over my, by then, dead cat.

"It was still dark but I could identify the dog by the light from my office.

"I pulled the dog off, it looked at me blankly and then off it went.

"I was extremely distressed.

"Although I moved away about three years ago, we let Charlie live in studio because it was so safe and peaceful there."

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Charlie the cat

Akita dogs are banned in some countries - but not in the UK.

They can weigh up to 130lb and are considered first-class guard dogs in Japan.

Mr Roussounis added: "This attack has been devastating.

"I now know how really dangerous these dogs are."

The grieving cat-lover, wife Helen and daughters Angie, 37 and Lucy, 35 have been left heartbroken over the loss of Charlie and held an emotional funeral for the much-loved pet.

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Celebrating 18 happy years with the feline, the family had a bespoke casket specially made for Charlie by a family friend who works as a joiner.

He said: "I am devastated over the loss of Charlie – it should never have happened like that.

He was in amazing health for his age, and probably had another five years in him.

"Charlie a precious and dearly loved and cared for pet, that my family had grown up with.

"He was very shy with strangers, but so sweet and affectionate with the family.

"We all loved him so much.

"When we buried him in his special casket, both of my daughters came to be there, and brought their children."

Kent Police have confirmed they are aware of a report of the incident which happened just before 4am on August 9.

A spokesman added: "Enquiries have been made."