A five-week-old kitten who nearly drowned in a oil container in Watford was rescued by the RSPCA and is now looking for a new home.

The charity was called to Watford Business Park on Monday where they pulled the cat out of a container full of oil.

He was very scrawny and covered in thick black oil, and due to his huge pitiful eyes the charity's officers named him Gollum, after the character from the Lord of the Rings.

Gollum was rushed straight to the vets where he was washed, revealling his ginger fur, which had been hidden by the oil.

Animal Welfare Officer Tracy Deamer said: "The poor little mite was exhausted, and after some food he fell fast asleep. It was such a traumatic day for little Gollum. Unsurprisingly he was completely wiped out."

The charity hope that Gollum has not swallowed too much oil and can be rehomed after he has recovered.

If you would like to adopt Gollum, or a kitten like him, telephone 020 8966 9688 or email info@rspcamiddlesex.org.uk. 

You can also view all the animals looking for a new home by visiting www.rspca-middlesex.org.uk.