Fizz, a ginger puss from Powys, who has become famous for his travel exploits, has been named National Cat of the Year by Cats Protection.

Four-year-old Fizz, from Llandrindod Wells, who put a halt to the British Bowls Championships and once found his way to a pub five miles away, beat thousands of other entries to be named overall winner at the National Cat Awards on September 24.

The ceremony, which is the UK’s biggest celebration of cats, took place at One Marylebone in London, hosted by novelist and self-confessed cat lady Dawn O’ Porter. Fizz received recognition for the joy he has brought to the whole community and how his love for adventure has brought people together far and wide. He has been a constant presence strolling around town since he was nine months old and has been spotted in the bank, job centre, library, gym, bingo, newsagents and theatre.

He has also got his paws on social media with over two thousand followers on Facebook and people taking his photo in the street.

Owner, Briony Loder, 58, said: “Just over four years ago we acquired a ginger kitten and little did we know then that he’d grow into a celebrity cat with over 2.3k followers on his own Facebook page.

“Fizz Wanderer, as he’s affectionately known by the whole town, is a sassy little cat with so much personality. I love him to bits but fully acknowledge that he’s not just my cat …he’s the town cat! I’m so proud of the way he embraces life to the full and how he makes such a difference to people’s lives.

“The stories we hear from folks are priceless – he once gate-crashed a wedding and ended up in the wedding photos, he put a halt to the British outdoor bowling championship semi-finals by strolling onto the green, and he’s been appointed ‘assistant director’ by the local theatre company as he attends all their rehearsals! People always have a smile on their face when they talk to me about Fizz.

“He’s unique and a little star, he’s loved by so many people. The whole town – not just me – will be over the moon that he’s won!”

Fizz scooped first prize for most Connected Cat, celebrating cats who share the love and bring people together far and wide. He was then selected as overall National Cat of the Year by a panel of celebrity judges, winning a trophy and prize package, including a £200 pet store voucher.

He follows in the paw prints of last year’s winner Marley, who lives at a safe house, helping women who have been enslaved, exploited and trafficked.

This year’s other category winners were: Carrot (Senior Cat) – a 22-year-old cat, who proved age is no barrier to living life to the full.

Magic (Family Cat) – a black-and-white cat who provided comfort at a time of crisis.

Void (Incredible Cat) – who saved his owner’s life by raising the alarm on multiple occasions.

Jeff Knott from Cats Protection said: “The standard this year was exceptionally high but Fizz’s love of adventure and numerous escapades won us over. In a digital age, when communities can feel so fragmented, it’s heartwarming to see how the simple, reassuring presence of a cat can bring so much love and joy.”

The National Cat Awards, organised by Cats Protection, is an annual event shining a light on real-life stories of heroism, loyalty and companionship in the cat world.