The owner of a kitten which went missing in Oakham on Christmas Day is desperately hoping local animal-lovers can help track down the four-month old tabby.

Buttons escaped within hours of owner Tracy Morris arriving at her daughter Megan and boyfriend Reece's house in Ladywell.

"Megan has Button's sibling and we thought it would be nice to get them together.

"It was about 2pm and we'd just finished unwrapping presents and started cooking dinner," explains Tracy from Fleckney.

"We opened the door to throw out the wrapping paper and then realised Buttons had gone - she must have shot out of the open door.

"All three of us spent hours searching for her in the car and on foot.

"Buttons is a house cat, so she's not used to being outside and she's been gone for two days now so I am very worried.

"She's only young and I'm not sure how long she can survive - she must be so scared.

"Losing her ruined Christmas Day for us all."

Now back at home, Tracy is planning to make the 40 minute journey back to Oakham after work tomorrow (Sat) to resume the search for Buttons, who has not yet been microchipped.

"My other cat Bear is missing her terribly, they adore each other.

"I got Buttons to keep Bear company after he was so sad when my other cat and dog died within just a few months of each other.

"I just want her back home where she belongs."

In the meantime Megan and Reece have been out scouring the local area for Buttons and putting up posters.

"She is very timid and after these few days I'm sure she'll be more scared than ever," said Reece.

"She'll be very hard to catch so if anyone does see her I'd recommend getting some food which will tempt her over.

"She's such an adorable kitten and needs to be reunited with her family."

Anyone who sees Buttons can contact Tracy on 07834 369090, Megan on 07504 242256 or Reece on 07891 488859.