HE'S the boss, the VIP, the indisputable leader of the gang and, as far as he is concerned, the most tip top, top cat.

Meet Mr Shambles, the moggie who thinks he's the coolest Tom Cat in the county.

Newent's favourite ginger Tom has his own territory, an army of feline fans, several homes and his own Facebook page.

Now the glamourpuss has done a photo shoot for Your Cat magazine which will go out across the country in December 15.

Mr Shambles was originally christened Tigger by owner Liz Salter who adopted him and his stay at home brother Smudge from the Cats' Protection League.

Over the past five years she has learned to live with his wanderlust ways but even she was surprised to find out that he had his own billboard and Facebook page at The Shambles.

Shopkeepers adopted him as their mascot after he made himself at home in the old Victorian museum which has now been converted into shops.

Further investigation revealed he has a bench outside Solid Objects, an arm chair in the Newent Association for the Disabled charity shop and a cushion at a local solicitors where he is known as Garfield.

Previously he spent a few weeks living in the local church and squatted in a medieval cottage after breaking in through a cat flap.

Your Cat decided to interview him after learning of his Facebook page.

Gisela Hansen of Solid Objects said: "He's a lovely, affectionate cat, a real sweetie there's something quite special about him. He's very friendly and patient and adores cuddles so all the children love him.

"But he's also a bit of a diva with attitude. He's definitely a character and I've never met a cat quite like him."

Owner Liz does not mind her Tigger being unfaithful and wants him to enjoy his new found fame.

"He's a lovely cat so I can understand why everybody likes him but he knows exactly where to come when he wants to get away from it all," she said.