The owner of a much-loved Isle of Wight cat, who was renowned among patients and staff at St Mary's Hospital, has revealed why she thinks Leo was visiting the site so often.
The ginger moggy, who was a familiar face at the Newport hospital, sadly died this week after an accident on a road near the hospital.
His death has prompted Islanders to pay tribute and in his memory, a fundraiser has been launched, to cover vet and cremation costs.
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The GoFundMe page reads: "Leo was a much-loved mischief, who chose to spend his time frequenting St Mary’s hospital. He brought joy to both staff and patients and will be dearly missed."
So far, the original target of £150 has been more than doubled.
Anything spare will be shared equally, between four Island-based charities, which means Cats Protection, Feline Welfare, Friends of the Animals and the RSPCA could all receive donations.
Owner Meghann Carter and her mum, Jan Hazell, told the County Press they believe they know why Leo was spending time at the hospital.
Meghann said: "Leo loved our dog, Archie.
"He used to come for walks with us. He would appear out of nowhere, and come for the whole walk.
"Archie passed in May and that's when Leo started to go over to the hospital. We think he may have been looking for him."
Jan and Meghann, who works at the hospital, set up a Facebook page so others could share photographs of Leo's visits, which meant his loving family knew he was safe.
Last week, the alarm was raised on Facebook, after a road accident.
A post said the driver stopped but a ginger cat ran off. Sadly, it was later confirmed to be Leo and he did not survive.
Messages on the GoFundMe site have spoken fondly of the comfort Leo gave so many, and said he had 'touched hearts'.
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