A cat that helped save the life of its owner has been given a special award for her companionship, loyalty and support.

Rescue cat Peggy helped Dundee woman Kirsty Oliphant, 23, overcome serious mental health problems.

Kirsty had a long history of mental health issues and had frequently been admitted to a psychiatric hospital following a series of suicide attempts.

She said life changed almost overnight when she adopted Peggy, the 16-year-old Tortoiseshell.

Kirsty said: "As soon as I met her, she jumped on top of my lap and I knew she had chosen me.

"Immediately we had a bond and that has just become stronger and stronger.

"She brought humour, fun and comfort into my life overnight.

"My life changed very quickly after Peggy came home with me. The despair lifted and having her by my side gave me a new sense of purpose and responsibility.

"Before Peggy, I was in and out of hospital with mental health issues. It was a draining and difficult life. Yet since she arrived I've not been back to hospital once.

"My life really has turned around. I thought my life was over but, thanks to Peggy, it is just beginning."

After struggling through her previous sport psychology degree, Ms Oliphant is now well enough to return to university, where she will study mental health nursing in a bid to help others in similar situations.

The cat had its own health issues to contend with and had struggled to find a new home as she suffers from Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, (FIV), which is similar to HIV.

Peggy was given a special award at Cats Protection's National Cat Awards 2016.

Ms Oliphant attended a ceremony to accept Peggy's award from the charity's chief executive Peter Hepburn.

She said: "I always knew how special Peggy is but this award means the world to me. I'm so delighted other people have recognised what she means."

The event is designed to celebrate the extraordinary tales of survival, companionship and bravery in the feline world.