The Police
It is strongly advised that you report your sighting to the police and be carfull when reporting to the press. The police need to know that cat sightings are being made in your \ their area so that they can collate this information and act accordingly. There will be a police Wildlife Liaison Officer that you can contact who is usually responsible for these and other countryside matters. No matter how foolish or anxious you may feel in talking to the police (some forces are very supportive others are not) it is important they know what is happening.
The Press
Press involvement can be a huge hindrance depending who you are dealing with. Sometimes they wish to sensationalise events with the result of much unhelpful publicity for individuals & communities. Other times reporting is not always accurate. However, if you feel that they should be informed please consider contacting the police first and seeking their advice on this issue.
DEFRA
( Department for Eviroment & Rural Affairs)
DEFRA have the widest remit possible for countryside matters. They should be a valuable tool in the search for non-native big cats….however, to date I have found it hard to locate any department within the organisation which deals with Big Cat sightings specifically. Notwithstanding this, if you go to their website www.defra.gov.uk and go to the search bar and type 'Big Cats' a number of documents appear on the subject (so someone somewhere or on DEFRA's behalf does at least collate information on big cats & on occaisions investigates such matters). I would advise that any attacks on wildlife that you suspect could be the work of a Big Cat or dog should be reported to DEFRA. Sadly, like the police DEFRA can sometimes be suportive other times not.