A RABBIT that was registered as ’lost property’ after being left on a train has still not been claimed, two weeks later.

Named Clarabel by staff at the Woodside animal sanctuary after one of Thomas the Tank Engine’s carriages, the pure white rabbit with grey ears and nose has clearly been loved and looked after, but was left on the Penzance to Plymouth train in her pink carrier on June 7.

After the train terminated at Plymouth, a GWR employee took her home, hoping that by morning someone would have come forward. But now, Woodside fears that it’s a case of abandonment, and that the owner may have found themselves in a difficult situation and unable to cope.

Assistant manager Liz Darcy is encouraging that person to come forward – anonymously if they wish – as information such as the rabbit’s age, veterinary history and preferences around children and other animals will help staff look after her and find her a new home. She said: “We still have no inkling where she came from and no information about her. She looked so well-cared for, that’s what surprised us, she’s a good weight.

“You pick her up and you instantly fall in love with her. You can tell she had time spent on her, she’s beautiful, and she’s friendly.”

Woodside Animal Sanctuary in Plymouth is unusual in that as well as cats and dogs, it takes in small animals like rodents, rabbits, and guinea pigs, poultry, and even ponies and goats, as it has a good amount of outdoor space. There are currently 150 animals on site, 100 of which are up for re-homing.

The Sanctuary has been open and supporting people throughout the pandemic and Liz says staff understand and “would never judge” anyone who felt they could no longer look after a pet.

She said: “We are here to help. It’s really sad to think that a person felt they weren’t able to contact someone and ask.”

It is not known if Clarabel joined the train between London Paddington and Penzance, or on the return journey through Cornwall. Woodside manager Helen Lecointe said: “Over the years we have seen many animals sadly left in strange locations when owners have been unable to keep them, but this is the first rabbit on a train that I know of. We are more than happy to help find Clarabel a new home and care for her if the owner has been unable to keep her, but we would welcome more information on her.”

If you have any information on Clarabel, you can contact Woodside on 01752 347503 or [email protected]