A footbridge in north London is set to be named in honor of a beloved local cat, Barney, following a heartfelt campaign by residents. The cat, who became a familiar figure in Enfield, spent his days lounging on a bridge over the New River, where locals often stopped to pet him until his death three years ago.
Residents described Barney as a “riverside icon” and a staple of their daily routines. He was known for his fearless nature, often standing his ground when dogs passed by. Some dog walkers even went out of their way to avoid the bridge to steer clear of a confrontation with the determined feline.
In response to the outpouring of affection for Barney following his passing, Enfield Council decided to honor the cat with a memorial on the bridge. The council stated, “It is clear from the reaction to Barney’s death that there is genuine enthusiasm from local residents to create a memorial for him.”
Alan Boyle, a member of the Gentleman’s Row, River View, and Holly Walk Residents’ Association, which initiated the online campaign to name the bridge after Barney, shared fond memories of the cat’s daily presence. “He would lie in the middle of the bridge and wouldn’t move for anyone,” Boyle recalled. “People would pat or stroke him as they walked to school, work, or to catch a train. Everyone knew Barney. He was legendary.”
Boyle added that after Barney’s death, the local Facebook page “Love Your Doorstep” was flooded with around 150 messages of condolence. Many of the comments expressed how much the cat meant to the community: “We always loved saying hello to Barney,” and “My grandchildren loved walking along the New River to see him.”
Barney’s owner also thanked the community for their support, commenting, “We knew Barney was popular, but we didn’t realize just how well known he really was!”
The naming of the footbridge in Barney’s honor will ensure that his legacy as a cherished local figure will live on for years to come.
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