Oscar the tabby cat was declared a city slicker this week when he returned home after a seven-month absence.

He reappeared the day before Brighton and Hove was granted city status.

Owner Jan Summers - who was one of the 100 Faces used to promote the campaign to become a city - has now dubbed her pet City Cat.

Jan, 50, was frantic with worry when Oscar disappeared on an outdoor adventure almost seven months ago.

But the six-year-old cat came home to Shirley Street, Hove, on Sunday. Brighton and Hove was granted city status the next day.

Jan said: "He went away a town and came back a city.

"On Sunday my husband Andy heard him crying in the back garden outside the window. He told me I ought to come and have a look quick as it would be a nice surprise."

She added: "I was one of the faces of Brighton and celebrated my 50th birthday this year, and then this happens. It really has been my year."