A cat loving care home resident has been knitting blankets in time for winter - for homeless cats in Leeds rescued by the RSPCA.

Leeds local, 79-year-old Barry Hudson a resident at Seacroft Green, has knitted six blankets so far, alongside oven cloths, dish cloths, peg bags, and baby blankets for expecting care staff at the 76-bed home in Seacroft which provides residential, nursing, dementia and working age adult care.

A keen knitter, Barry was introduced to his favourite hobby by his mother when he was just 16-years-old.

Barry said, “My mother taught me to knit when I was a school-boy. The headmaster at my school wrote to my mother requesting that I should learn to knit at home as it would be therapeutic for me – I’ve not stopped since then!”

Care staff at the home reached out to their local RSPCA to arrange for the blankets to be delivered in time for winter. The RSPCA responded with a personalised certificate and medal for Barry to thank him for the warm blankets.

Barry has always had a love for animals. As a young boy and only child, he grew up with six cats, six dogs, rabbits and an adopted donkey called Ned.

As an adult, Barry had three cats he loved dearly called Bindy, Baby and Fluffy. “I love all animals and want to help them. There are so many animals that need a home – so I want to at least, at the bare minimum make them comfortable.”

Wellbeing Team Leader, Sam Enright said, “We’re all amazed at Barry’s passion and commitment to knitting the blankets for the cats. He’s a true inspiration at the home as he not only knits and donates blankets, but he also hosts an annual Christmas concert at the home to also raise money for the RSPCA."

“Our wellbeing team are always looking for ways to support residents’ passions and hobbies and we’re delighted we could help Barry fulfil his goal to knit and donate the blankets.”