Riley the Cat statue

In the picturesque village of Ambleside, nestled by the enchanting Millans Park, a little stray kitten named Riley came into the world during a big snowstorm in 2011.

Abandoned and left to face the cold alone, fate had something special in store for Riley.

Local businesses and caring residents noticed the tiny fluffball and took it upon themselves to look after her.

In the following years, Riley transformed from a wary stray into a friendly feline who captured the hearts of both locals and visitors alike.

Despite the kindness she received, Riley remained a free spirit.

She appreciated the warmth and care offered but found her joy in the freedom of outdoor living.

Locals would spot her in her favourite spot, basking in the sun, her fur glistening with a blend of sunshine and stories.

Riley became a beloved attraction, a symbol of the village's charm.

Tourists sought her out, drawn to her friendly purrs and playful antics.

She became a living testament to the simple joys that make Ambleside so special.

Tragically, last week, Riley's spirited journey came to an unexpected end.

The locals and regular visitors mourned the loss of their feline friend, so an idea blossomed.

In memory of Riley, we decided to raise a small bronze statue – a timeless tribute to the free-spirited cat who had touched so many hearts.

The statue will be placed where she spent most of her time, visitors will be sure to find this easy location and pause to remember Riley, the Ambleside icon.

The little bronze figure will stand as a reminder that even the smallest creatures can leave a lasting impact, and the simple joys of life, like a friendly purr or a sunny spot, matter more than we often realise.

In every visitor's smile and every local's glance, Riley's spirit will live on, forever etched in the memory of the village she once called home.

Thank you !