AN award-winning artist is offering a unique reward for the safe return of her family’s feline friend.

Renowned Peebles artist Stefka Pijper has her brushes poised ready to paint a portrait for the hero who finds and returns their beloved cat.

The Pijper family are devastated at the loss of their cat, affectionately dubbed Sir Baggy of Peebles, because of his tendency to invite himself into residents’ homes in the area.

But the tears of heartbroken daughter Nizhoni have prompted mum Stefka to offer a piece of art as a reward – an oil portrait of a family pet or person. Her paintings normally cost up to £1,000 if commissioned.

Sir Baggy, who likes to explore the town and countryside, went missing around a month ago and has been known to enter sheds as well as homes.

Stefka explained: “We have always been careful to make sure he is wearing his collar so people in the community can clearly see he is not a stray.

“Baggy has made a bit of a name for himself in the community. He is extremely affectionate and unafraid of strangers.”

This isn’t the first time the adventurous cat has decided to take a holiday from his normal residence in Forest View, and the family are still hopeful they will be reunited with him.

Stefka said: “Baggy has ventured to surrounding farms in the past for visits for a few days, but never more than four days at a time. That is why we didn’t worry at the beginning of his disappearance. There have been reports of a cat matching his description in Cuddyside.”

Daughter Nizhoni is missing her fluffy friend, who would sneak into her room every morning to wake her up with a kiss.

“My daughter is absolutely heartbroken without him. She cries every night saying he is irreplaceable.”

The artist is known world-wide for her oil paintings, pencil drawings, and pyrography wood-burning, with much of her work focusing on wildlife, pet and people portraiture.

Her talent has won her many awards throughout the United Kingdom, and has been displayed in London-based exhibitions.

Stefka added: “Seeing how devastated my daughter is at Baggy’s disappearance, I am determined to do whatever I can to increase the chances that he could be returned to her.

“I believe that a treasured piece of art would make a unique and special reward for the person who is able to find Baggy and return him safe and well.”

l Can you help reunite the Pijper family with Sir Baggy? Perhaps you have been looking after him, or have seen him wandering the streets? Contact Stefka by emailing stephpijper@hotmail.co.uk or call Pascal Pijper 07907647950.