Tributes paid to cat who 'brought joy to everyone'

Archie Farmer
BBC News, South West
Vanessa Greenaway A picture of Felix sat on a bench in Liskeard. He is a black and brown cat with white patches. He is wearing a black collar with a tag around his neck.Vanessa Greenaway
His owners say he will be cremated and his ashes returned to them this week

Tributes have been paid to a well-loved, locally-famous cat who died after being hit by a car in Cornwall.

Felix, from Liskeard, was well known in the area, usually found sitting at the same bench near the local branch of Morrisons supermarket.

His owners said he would be cremated and his ashes returned to them this week.

A Facebook group with more than 1,400 members was set up last year to document his travels and for locals and visitors to share their stories of him.

Claire Sutherland Morath Felix with a painting of himself. Felix is on the left, sitting, with a black head and a white nose and mouth. A mini canvas is on the right of the frame.Claire Sutherland Morath
Shaz Harris, Felix's owner, said her cat was a "self-appointed community support officer"

Shaz Harris, Felix's owner, said: "We only discovered his secret life 11 months ago, but had no idea just how many people were involved until we were asked to set up a page for his friends to post photos and share their stories of him.

"The children who rushed to see him after school, the elderly who may not have spoken to anyone that day, each and every person he helped in some small way.

"The flowers cards gifts and tributes that have been left at the bench has been incredible.

"Felix loved his life and this community. He would spend hours as a self-appointed community support officer, escorting people across the road and back from the shops."

Garry Fox A picture of the bench in Liskeard full of colourful flowers. The bench can be seen with the flowers on, packets of cat food and grass behind and around.Garry Fox
Tributes have poured in for Felix the cat

Cats Protection Launceston and District said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Felix, a truly special cat who captured the hearts of so many in our community.

"A local star and cherished companion, Felix brought joy to everyone who knew him.

"Our hearts go out to his family and all who loved him."

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