Ollie the elderly cat is one of the oldest feline patients registered with a South Gloucestershire veterinary practice.

At nearly 18, he is the much-loved pet of Myra Mitchell, of Patchway, and in equivalent human years would be about 90.

Cats reach seniority at about seven or eight but with advances in treatment and care, many go on to live for many more years.

Now the Rowe Veterinary Group is about to run an event at its Bradley Stoke animal hospital to highlight some of the conditions affecting senior cats. It will look at what can be done to cure conditions or slow them down if they are diagnosed early enough.

The open evening tomorrow will be run by vets Liz Browning and Richard Artingstall, who will outline common problems seen in older cats and Mark Wadland, who will look at arthritis.

It starts at 7.30pm and is open to anyone, whether or not a client of the practice. Places must be booked by calling the hospital on 01454 275000.