Still time to visit flash tattoo event in Torrington today for Cats Protection

Cat lovers and everyone else are invited to visit Dearworthy Tattoo in Torrington today (Tuesday, October 28) to get inked at a special Flash Tattoo event – with all profits going to Cats Protection.

The event in the studio at 14, High Street runs until 6pm and is being hosted by talented local tattoo artist Shannon Stevens, who is a confirmed cat lover and has three felines of her own.

Shannon said: “My cat Lugosi truly helped me through one of the hardest times in my life.

“This event is my way of giving something back and supporting the cats who need it most.”

Above: Shannon’s cats Lugosi, who she credits with helping her through a difficult time in her life, plus Bramble and Nandor.

Even if you don’t fancy getting tattooed, everyone is welcome to stop by, say hello and learn more about the important work Cats Protection does to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome cats across the UK and raise awareness about feline welfare.

Shannon has been fascinated by tattoos since the age of 12 and began working as a tattooist in 2020, a difficult time to be an unpaid tattoo artist apprentice.

Above: Dearworthy tattoos is donating all profits from tattoos today to Cats Protection.

Shannon said: “My favourite type of tattoos to work on are either very cute cats or subjects inspired by horror.

“I tend to find that I don't mind so much what I work on, I enjoy the client's ideas and see it as more of a collaboration, especially if I gel really well with my client and we can come up with ideas together.

“When I did this charity event before, I did it because I was living in rented accommodation and I wasn't allowed a cat. But I eagerly wanted one in my life because they're my favourite animals to ever exist.

“When we were evicted due to our landlord selling the house, my mental health took a bit of a nose dive and I can't give my first cat, Lugosi, enough credit for how he pulled me out of a really bad place due to stress. He really kept me going, and I feel like this is a way I can give back to cats.

“I'd also like to spread a bit of awareness too, as cats often get a bad rap because they are considered ‘antisocial’ or generally just unpleasant.

“With the correct love and care, cats will be your best friend. I also think it's best to support a local charity, especially in places like Torrington, where the town is very independent and relies on locals to keep it thriving.”

Above: Shannon Stevens at work in her studio