A cat from Blackheath could be named Cat of the Year 2021 after he provided the inspiration for his owner to fight in hospital after suffering a major stroke.

Boris is nominated for Cat Protection's National Cat Awards 2021 for him and his owner's motivational story which saw him recover and return home after suffering the catastrophic stroke in 2015.

After three months in hospital and although still severely disabled, owner Alex Tullis was discharged and reunited with his pet.

Just months later the cat was then hit by a car, but eight-year-old Boris and 80-year-old owner Alex both pulled through.

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Alex’s daughter Caroline Epps explained: “When Dad was in hospital, he talked all the time about Boris to the nurses and was determined to be reunited with him.

"It was wonderful to get Dad home and see his face light up when he saw Boris.

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“So when a few months later Boris was hit by a car, Dad wouldn’t give up on him. He made sure Boris got all the treatment he needed.

"Although Boris lost an eye and developed epilepsy, he was soon back at Dad’s side.

“Dad is now confined to bed, and Boris is wonderful company for him. He provides so much comfort and companionship and brings great joy into Dad’s life.

"They make a great pair, and it’s lovely to see them together.”

Boris beat hundreds of other felines to take his place as one of three contenders for the Purina Better Together Category this year.

After last year’s event was postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions, Alex and Caroline now face a nail-biting wait until Thursday 5 August when all four category winners will be revealed online.

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A celebrity panel will then decide which cat walks away with the coveted title of National Cat of the Year, which will be announced on Thursday 12 August.

Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards, organised by the UK’s largest cat charity and sponsored by Purina, is a celebration of the real-life stories of heroism, loyalty and companionship in the feline world.

Cats Protection’s awards organiser Kate Bunting said: “Alex and Boris have a wonderful bond, and it’s incredibly touching to hear how the thought of returning to Boris kept Alex going after his stroke.

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"After everything they’ve been though, it’s great to know that they have each other for comfort and companionship.”

Each category winner will receive a trophy, a £100 pet store voucher, a year’s subscription to Cats Protection’s The Cat magazine and a three months’ supply of Purina cat food.