Walney Bridge Big Cat (2004)

The following article by R Herbert entitled ‘ Big cat seen close to Walney bridge’ was published in the North West Evening Mail on Thursday, 06 May 2004.

POLICE have told people not to panic after a mystery creature was spotted on Barrow Island.

The animal was reported close to Jubilee Bridge during the early hours of the morning. It was believed to be too large for a dog or cat and it was suggested it could be a panther.

The British Big Cat Society, which received reports of 2,052 sightings in the 15 months up to March 2004, believes there is little doubt that big cats are roaming in Britain.

Danny Bamping, founder of the society, said: “There have been lots of sightings of big cats in your neck of the woods. A panther could quite easily survive on its own.

“I don’t think they’re a major threat to people. They tend to steer clear of humans as they’re wise to the fact that man equals danger.”

Sergeant Keith Healey of Barrow police, said the police had received no calls about big cats but advised the public to get in touch if they saw anything that concerned them.