Tributes paid to much-loved Stourbridge town centre cat Leo after tragic death

Stourbridge's famous station cat George has paid a touching tribute to fellow feline Leo, who died after being hit by a car in the town centre.

Leo, a friendly ginger and white cat known for his adventures around Stourbridge, was put to sleep after being hit by a car on Birmingham Street on Wednesday, October 7.

The adventurous feline, believed to be around two or three years old, had become something of a local celebrity thanks to his regular visits to shops, businesses and other popular spots across the town.

Known affectionately as Stourbridge Town Cat Leo, he had built up a loyal following on Facebook, where residents regularly shared photographs and updates about his latest escapades.

Among his favourite haunts were the Ryemarket shopping centre, Greggs, the Cats Protection charity shop, TH Baker and Crystal Leisure Centre.

He was also a familiar face at King Edward VI College, where he proved particularly popular with students.

Leo even made appearances at Stourbridge Scare Maze and featured in a mural at the college by artist Stacy Hammond alongside another of the town's famous felines, George the Station Cat.

Following news of Leo's death, a tribute was shared on George's Facebook page, reassuring followers that the popular Stourbridge Junction station cat was safe and well.

The post, written from George's perspective, said: "Hello, my lovely hoomans.

"The FC has asked me to pop on here to reassure everybody following a very sad news article published today about Leo, the Stourbridge town cat, who has sadly lost his life after being hit by a car.

"First of all, please don’t worry. I am safe and well. The cat mentioned in the article is not me."

The message went on to pay tribute to Leo and offer condolences to those who knew him.

It continued: "However, whilst I wanted to put everybody’s minds at rest, I also want to spare a thought for poor Leo and those who loved and cared for him.

"He was a much-loved little character in his own right, and his loss is terribly sad.

"Sending lots of love and gentle head bonks to everybody whose hearts are hurting today.

"Sleep peacefully, Leo. May your next journey be filled with sunshine and kindness."

The message was signed off: "Love, George. Stourbridge Junction’s very own ginger station cat."

Leo's devastated owner, 22-year-old Kaitlyn Bustin, of Stepping Stones, confirmed the heartbreaking news following the collision.

She said: "Unfortunately, on Wednesday afternoon, I received the phone call we had all been dreading... Leo has crossed the rainbow bridge.

"I tried every possible way to keep him with me, but unfortunately, as a single mum to two boys, I couldn’t afford the operations he would have needed.

"It breaks my heart, but the only option I had was to let him go peacefully.

"I hope one day people will understand that I did what I thought was best for him, even though it was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make.

"Rest easy, my ginger boy. You were loved, and you always will be."