A Somerset couple is anxiously searching for their beloved cat, Belle, after she vanished following an unexpected ride inside an Ocado delivery van. The feline was captured on CCTV sneaking into the vehicle during a drop-off at Shiplate Farm near Weston-super-Mare on June 5.
Sue Martin and Adam Cole believe the van continued its deliveries with Belle inside, but she likely escaped at the next stop. Distressed by their missing pet, the couple is now pleading for help to bring her home.
Sue explained, “We know Belle got into the van and that it kept making deliveries. But we don’t know where she got out. She could be anywhere right now; we just want her back.”
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Adam revealed he initially struggled to obtain precise delivery route details from Ocado, citing data privacy reasons. Eventually, he was told the next stop was in the BS23 postcode area, but this information was too general to effectively narrow the search.
Turning to social media, Sue and Adam reached out to the local community in Weston-super-Mare for assistance. The response has been overwhelming, with hundreds sharing posts, offering support, and helping to track possible sightings. Adam remarked, “The support has been incredible. People have been sharing details about their deliveries and helping piece together where Belle might have left the van.”
Belle is believed to have exited around the Uphill area, a likely spot given cats’ tendency to flee at their first chance. This disappearance is unusual for Belle, who is normally adventurous but always returns home.
Adam recounted their discovery: “Our cats usually stay close, especially living on a farm. When Belle didn’t come back, we checked the CCTV and saw her get into the van. We don’t blame the driver—he had no idea she was inside.”
The couple is urging anyone who may have seen Belle or lives near Ocado’s delivery route on the day she disappeared to check sheds, garages, and gardens.
“Luckily, Belle is microchipped,” Adam said. “She’s shy and might lay low, but she knows humans feed her—hopefully, someone will find her soon.”
While disappointed by the delay in receiving delivery information, Adam remains hopeful, “With the community’s help, we’ll find Belle and bring her home to meet everyone who cared.”
An Ocado spokesperson expressed sympathy and confirmed ongoing communication with the family to aid the search, saying, “We hope the family is reunited with their pet soon and will continue to provide any helpful information.”