A CAT trapped in a derelict building in Edinburgh for a week has been rescued in an operation involving the Scottish SPCA, fire service and police.
Scotland's animal welfare charity was alerted by the owner of the lost feline when she heard cries coming from a fire damaged bingo hall on Great Junction Street, Edinburgh, on Sunday
Police officers were called out on Monday to help get inside the building while firemen and Scottish SPCA looked for the cat, named Albert.
Animal rescue officer Steph Grant said, "This was a really dramatic rescue which involved everyone working together.
"Once the police had forced entry I went in with fire and rescue officers to help find Albert. It was tough as the building is so dark and the only source of light was our torches. It also didn't help that Albert is grey in colour and the building is badly fire damaged and extremely dirty.
"Around two hours after we began our search we eventually spotted Albert sitting in an air vent. He was absolutely terrified as well as thin and dehydrated."
He added that it was likely the cat had been in the building for a week, but is now well on the road to recovery.
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