Yorkshire Woman Fights Council Ban on Feeding Stray Cats

In a quiet Yorkshire town, a dispute has arisen between a former cafe owner and local businesses over a group of feral cats. Colette Boler, who had been caring for the felines for nearly two decades, received a warning from Barnsley Council prohibiting her from feeding them. This action was prompted by complaints from a nearby garage, whose owner cited health and safety concerns due to the cats defecating on their premises and around commercial stock.

The garage owner reportedly took extreme measures, including allegedly pouring bleach on the road to deter the animals, an act that Ms. Boler reported to the RSPCA. The warning from the council, which could lead to a fine of up to £2,500, left Ms. Boler devastated. However, a significant outpouring of support emerged after she shared her story on Facebook.

Cat lovers from across Yorkshire rallied around Ms. Boler, offering donations of food, money, and cards. The Cat Action Trust also provided assistance. A local businessman has since offered Ms. Boler a new location on his premises to tend to the cats, an arrangement the council has approved. Despite this development, the council's written warning remains, and Ms. Boler continues to seek a resolution that allows her to care for the cats she considers family.