A tiny kitten who stole the hearts of thousands after being found "cold and alone" with a chronic condition has died.

Penelope had been taken into the care of Wisteria Cat Rescue, Rochester, after being found in Parrock Street, Gravesend at the beginning of January.

She was looked after by Billy Devitt, who took the kitten into his care after she was found cold and alone by a member of the public who asked for help.

Nicknamed Penny, the young cat was estimated to be three or four weeks old when she was found and was fully dependent on human help.

It was originally thought the dumped animal had hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid in the brain.

Things had started to look up for the little cat, but sadly Billy and his team had to make to the tough decision to put her to sleep yesterday following a decline in her condition.

He said: "Over the past couple of days, Penny's legs kept giving way and she was unable to stand self aided.

"The lovely vet team – who had all grown and loved penny very much - saw her decline and quickly rushed into action but sadly Penny’s body had given up and she was unable to hold her head up.

"The decision was made to relieve Penny of her suffering and at 3pm on Tuesday she was welcomed across the rainbow bridge."

Billy explained that his charity put everything into Penny, including numerous tests, health checks and ultrasounds.

However the results were drawing a blank.

He added: "Our hearts across the team are shattered into a million pieces but not as much as her wonderful foster mummy, Kelly, and her daughter, Nicole.

"They fostered Penelope since January and had been with her every step of the way, giving around the clock care to penny.

"They are heartbroken beyond words - thank you for showing penny the love she deserves in her short time on this planet.

"When welcoming Penny to the rescue the world instantly fell in love with her, what a cheeky heartbreaker she was.

"Penelope was the prettiest Penny you ever shall see. Sleep well precious one, a queen too precious for this world."

Penny is now in the hands of Treasured Friends Pet Crematorium.