A couple reported seeing a knee-high, black feline creature with a long tail, which had a bulbous tip, in Isleham on August 26 at around 10pm.

Pc Paul Carter, wildlife officer at Cambridgeshire Police, has started recording all reported sightings of the animals.

"I have been fascinated by the possible existence of these creatures for many years," he said.

"Since becoming a member of the Rural Community Action Team four years ago, I have heard many stories from locals about big cats prowling our countryside.

"It would be wonderful to be able to prove of disprove their existence in Cambridgeshire once and for all."

The majority of reports to the police come from farmers who claim they have had cattle and sheep attacked by a lynx-type feline.

Descriptions of the animals vary from a large black panther to a smaller brown-spotted lynx.

Before laws were introduced in 1973 to control the import of exotic animals, big cats were brought into the UK and kept in private collections.

It is believed these animals could have escaped and still survive in the wild.

"As most sightings occur after dark, it is possible that peoples' minds can play tricks on them," said Pc Carter.

"However, I have spoken to many people over the years who are absolutely convinced about what they have seen."

Have you seen a big cat prowling the countryside? Call Kelly Felstead on 01638 564102.