Residents living above Sheffield’s railway station are in shock and disgust after the home of their beloved “community cat” was destroyed in an apparent arson attack.
The ginger cat, affectionately known as Garfield, has been a cherished presence in the South Street area, near the Grade II listed Park Hill flats, where locals have cared for him for years by feeding and petting him.
Last year, residents took it upon themselves to provide Garfield with a secure wooden hutch for shelter, positioned next to a grassy area near the tram crossing at the foot of South Street. However, on Wednesday night, the hutch was found in flames, with one local resident bravely rescuing a frightened Garfield from the fire.
Fortunately, Garfield escaped with only minor injuries and was taken to a local vet for a check-up.
The story of how Garfield became a part of the Park Hill community remains unclear, though some residents believe his original owner still lives nearby.
John Stones, a longtime resident of Park Hill, has been petting Garfield for years. “Everyone who comes here loves him, he’s a legend. We give him biscuits,” he said. “I think it’s absolutely disgusting that anyone could set fire to his home.”
Layla Johnson, another resident, has also lived in Park Hill for several years and describes Garfield as a “beautiful community cat.” She shared, “He loves being outside, and his owner kept trying to bring him into the house, but he prefers to stay here.”
Nathan Fane, a student at Sheffield Hallam, also lives near Park Square roundabout. “He’s really friendly. A lot of students give him treats,” he explained. “It’s nice to see him. It gives a sense of community. It’s such a pointless, saddening attack.”
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