Thousands raised in tribute to Bob - the Taw Hill cat

Residents in Taw Hill were devastated to learn the news that local legend and Facebook star, Bob the cat had sadly passed away.

Bob the cat had been a regular fixture in Taw Hill, famously patrolling the shops and cheering up residents for almost 20 years.

He had his own Facebook page, Bob life, with 3k followers where residents shared photographs and updates of their encounters with Bob. He had followers all around the world and was even imortalised in wool as a post box topper back in 2022.

Bob had been unwell for some time but chose to spend his final days in Taw Hill Village Centre where he was well looked after by residents and shop staff. 

Claire Edwards, Bob's owner, shared the news of his passing at the weekend on Facebook. She said: "I am deeply saddened to share the news that we lost our beautiful Bob today. 

"We are incredibly upset but also know that there will be many people who took Bob to their hearts that will also miss him greatly. I would like to thank everyone, who over the years, have cared and loved Bob and have looked after him and for all of your comments, messages and photos. Fly high Bobby."

Tributes have poured in online and pictures, cards and flowers were left outside of the shops in memory of the much loved cat.

Claire has also set up a Go Fund Me to raise money for a permanent tribute to Bob. Within a few hours the inital target of £250 had been achieved and it is currently in excess of £2000. The fundraising hopes to raise enough for a bench and a statue of Bob.

To donate click here