May 1st – A couple of unusual cats noticed while visiting Middleton Hall and returning via the canal and Tamworth. The black and white puss nervously observed me from the scrub as I crossed the old quarry. Miles from anywhere, I couldn’t help wondering if he was feral. Certainly not into people, but it looked in good condition, maybe the side effect of living in a bird sanctuary…

The other cat looked genuinely like it might steal my soul. Clearly a pedigree with huge ears and a remarkable coat, it was eating scraps left out for it on a canalside patio. It seemed more fox than cat, to be honest.

I guess it’s momma loves it, but I found it quite haunting.