A MOGGY from Poole has been voted as the ‘purrfect’ candidate to be named as Westminster’s top cat in a national competition.

Billy the black and white kitten belonging to Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole has been crowned Purr Minster for 2015 in a kooky contest run by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

He ended up winning 23-per-cent of the vote with help from Mrs Brooke and husband, Cllr Mike Brooke, by creating a ‘manifursto’ which focused on love and care and promised an ‘edu-CAT-ion’ for all.

Speaking after the kitty’s win, Annette said: “I’m really thrilled that Billy has won, as I’m sure he will be, and he will be getting lots of extra treats.

“It has been a pleasure to be involved in this opportunity to promote rescue centres such as Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who do such good work.

“We acquired Billy from a rescue centre in Dorset last July, and were so impressed with them.

“My family stay in touch, letting them know how Billy is getting on, and I would really encourage anyone looking for a new pet to re-home from a rescue.”

Billy joins the ranks of Larry, who was chief mouser of Number 10 Downing Street and last year’s Purr Minster winner, Kevin, owned by Sefton Central MP, Bill Esterton.

Lindsey Quinlan, Battersea’s Head of Cattery, added: “We’re sure Billy will enjoy being the feline face of politics with his new title of Purr Minister. It was a tight race but we’re really pleased to present this coveted Battersea award to him.

“We know the British public love their cats and this just shows that our politicians do too.”