Nala, a ginger cat with an undeniably charming face, left an indelible mark on the town of Stevenage and the hearts of thousands.
Her reign as the unofficial station cat wasn't just about adorable naps and playful antics; it blossomed into a full-blown phenomenon, attracting over 150,000 followers across social media and even a music single.
The affection for Nala extended far beyond online admiration. Commuters and station staff alike cherished her presence, finding a moment of joy in her daily routines.
A simple box labeled “CAT” at the Costa coffee shop and a cushioned stool beside the heater at the local florist were testaments to the community’s devotion.
One visitor recalled a December morning where even the busiest travelers couldn’t help but smile at the sight of the ginger cat lounging near the barriers or stretching between shops.
Nala’s fondness for the station was so profound that she once accidentally locked herself inside after closing, perfectly at home amongst the familiar surroundings.
Her favorite haven was Green Goddess Flowers, where owner Lianne witnessed Nala’s visits evolve from occasional appearances to a cherished daily ritual of peaceful slumber.
Now, the community is rallying to create a lasting tribute to Nala – a statue and plaque at her beloved station, a fitting memorial to a feline who brought so much warmth to so many.
A GoFundMe campaign, initially aiming for £2,000, has already exceeded £3,000, fueled by the outpouring of love and remembrance.
This effort mirrors a similar tribute in Saltburn, where the beloved local cat, Hendrix, was honored with a statue after his passing earlier this year.
Like Hendrix, who fearlessly wandered into homes and shops, Nala possessed a unique ability to connect with everyone she met, leaving a void that will be deeply felt.
Organizers have already reached out to Great Northern Trains and the Mayor of Stevenage, seeking support for this heartfelt project.
Nala, who preferred to be known as “she,” wasn’t just a cat; she was a sweetheart, a local celebrity, and a symbol of joy for the entire community.
Her memory will undoubtedly live on, not just in the stories shared, but in the permanent tribute planned for the place she called home.
