A kitten was saved from certain death when schoolchildren heard her miaows from inside a Woolwich car bonnet - seconds before the driver could start his engine.

On November 11, a resident of Paget Rise was just about to start his engine when passing children called out to him, saying they could hear a cat.

An eight-week-old tortoise shell kitten, now named Parsnip, ran out and then was chased by neighbours from one car to another, and then another, and then finally straight to an RSPCA van. 

The RSPCA believe she may have been hiding in the engine overnight and are now appealing for information.

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RSPCA animal collection officer Kirstie Gillard said: "I can only assume the kitten was attracted to the warmth of the engines, and the feeling of safety - however misplaced.

"The cheeky little minx just would not be caught. As soon as I opened the bonnet she scampered out, quicker than I could grab her. 

"But it was as if she knew I was there to rescue her because she ran straight to my van and climbed up and squeezed into the tiniest space imaginable, between the wheel and the bottom of the car. We had quite some job getting her out.

"We do not know for sure if she belongs to someone nearby, although we believe she is likely to be the daughter of a stray, who just wandered away from her mum and got herself into this pickle.

"She is a really gorgeous little thing, and I am sure when she will not struggle to find a new home."

Anyone with any information should contact us on 0300 123 8018.

Parsnip is currently being cared for at the RSPCA’s South Godstone Animal Centre. She is not yet available for rehoming.