Council apologizes to cat owner after incinerating pet without notification

A cat owner, Stephanie Lucas, was upset after Brighton and Hove City Council incinerated her cat, Chowder, without informing her. She learned of her pet's death through social media and was initially misinformed about his whereabouts. The council later admitted the mistake and offered Lucas £100 for the distress caused. They explained that staff believed they were following humane procedures but did not realize the local vet was open on Sundays. The council has apologized for the confusion and is taking steps to ensure staff are better informed about handling similar situations in the future.