A well-known TV star from Motherland has stepped forward as the patron of a small cat rescue in south Wales.
Moggies Cat Rescue, based in Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf, was founded 12 years ago by Eileen Sewell and Doreen Miller and became a registered charity last year. The charity takes in cats when their owners must enter hospital or can no longer afford veterinary care, and it also rehabilitates stray and injured felines. In the past year alone, it has rehomed more than 125 cats.
Diane Morgan, who is known for BBC series Motherland and the mockumentary Philomena Cunk, has Welsh roots and has long had a soft spot for cats. She said she was "really touched" by the charity’s mission. Earlier this month, Morgan visited to meet founder Doreen Miller, along with several foster cats and staff members, and chatted with the team.
Morgan explained that she first learned about the charity through a friend who supports the rescue centre and has already rehomed one of its cats. "I’m a big animal rights supporter, and when I saw what Doreen and Eileen are trying to achieve, it really moved me," she said. "They’re working hard to provide shelter and medical care for injured or unwanted cats. They rely entirely on donations, and their generosity is genuinely heartwarming."
During her visit, Morgan met Zowzi, a cat who arrived at Moggies Cat Rescue for extensive medical treatment after her previous owners, who lacked insurance, could not afford the care. The comedian recalled a childhood cat named Merlin, describing him as her "whole world." Since the visit, Zowzi has found her forever home, according to staff member Nikki.
Moggies Cat Rescue collaborates with local social services to support people who unexpectedly end up in hospital, leaving their cats without care. The charity also takes in local strays, cats injured on the road, and animals belonging to owners facing mental health challenges who can no longer cope. It provides assistance to people fleeing domestic abuse who worry about what will happen to their pets if they leave.
A veterinary partner helps return sick cats to health, ensures they are vaccinated and neutered, and then the animals are prepared for adoption. Prospective adopters are interviewed, and homes are checked by the charity before approval for rehoming.
