Tributes paid to popular Banbury cat 'Lolly'

Tributes have been paid to popular Banbury cat, Lolly, who became an international media sensation

'Lolly' cat became a media sensation last summer for being known to play dead in the middle of the roads of Banbury.

Lesley Southam, Lolly's owner, took to social media to post a tribute to the beloved cat with the following Facebook post: "A sad morning for The Southam’s.

"Lolly passed over the rainbow bridge last night. He was diagnosed with cancer a few weeks ago and spent his final day getting tickles with all of the customers over at Peak Pharmacy then home to hug a radiator. Quite a character and loved by so man."

Tributes have been paid to popular Banbury cat, Lolly, who became an international media sensation for liking to 'play dead' in the roads of town

Tributes to the popular 'Lolly' poured out on social media today as seen on the community Facebook page Banburyshire Info.

One person said this in their tribute on the popular community Facebook page Banburyshire Info: "We will miss him at the surgery his antics always raised a smile and brightened our day So sorry for your loss RIP Lolly."

One person suggested the possibility of putting up a memorial plaque.

The person's post said: "My daughter just said a memorial plaque at the car park exit would be a nice idea, yes I think so too. I’m sure if needs be a bit of crowdfunding would cover any expense?"

One area resident's post said: "Aww so sorry to hear about Lolly, such a beautiful cat and what a character, RIP Lolly."

Another person said this in their post: "Oh no!!! I am so sorry. I always looked for him when driving up/down Beargarden."

The 14-year-old cat, Lolly, was a popular and well known cat in the community, and not just for 'playing dead.'

After the Banbury Guardian published a story about Lolly during the summer he started becoming even more popular.

In less than a month after the article had been published Lolly cat had been in several national newspapers such as the Mirror, the Daily Star, the Metro and even the Washington Post in America.

Lolly cat was also on the This Morning show with Ruth and Eamonn on ITV. He was also later mentioned on another ITV show called Loose Women.

His family was even contacted about an article in a magazine.

Lesley told the Banbury Guardian:"He just loves attention, and people."