Good morning everyone,

Firstly, myself and my family would like to thank everyone who has at some point given their time and love to dear Lucy over the years. She is, and always will be in our hearts.

We rescued her from a very young age and was a huge part of our family, as much as our other beloved pets have been. They say, outdoor cats usually have a much shorter lifespan than 'household cats' but she proved this wrong on more than one occasion by outliving some of our other pets throughout the years.

In the last few months, she did seem to come inside and sleep more than usual, but her appetite was fine - but it quickly became obvious she was on the decline as she was quick to become disorientated and we had to take her outside on a few occasions for a bathroom break as she couldn't make it past the cat flap to do her business.

We knew she was blind in one eye (from an accident she sustained from a vehicle one year, which decided to hit and run). Unfortunately, there was nothing that could be done about it at the time, and she was never in any pain. During the last few weeks, we noticed that her other eye was also seemingly affected - and the vet did confirm that cancer had spread from the first eye to both meaning she was totally blind. Her hearing had also declined over the years, but I'm sure she still remembered who we all were by touch - and I'll never forget the purrs she used to give when I was the first up in the morning to greet all the cats. I'm sure feeding time had nothing to do with it!

As a resident with a camera on the front garden, we would usually see her strutting her stuff on the wall, with many businessmen and women, elderly and families and children stop for a few moments and give her some love. This always warmed our hearts - and I am certain, hers as well. So thank you to all who took the time out of their busy lives to show her what life really could be like, especially when her health deteriorated.

In the last few months, it soon became apparent that she had stopped looking after herself as much. She wasn't grooming herself anymore and this caused some concern to some locals - who reported us to the RSPCA, who wrongly thought she was being neglected.

As a cat loving family, this was quite a shock - and to myself personally - I felt rather insulted. There was nothing in the world I wouldn't have done for any of my pets. The officer from the RSPCA came to the same conclusion after visiting us, and could see she was being well cared for. I understand people need to look out for the best interests of pets they may come across, but people need to understand that she was literally 'knocking on heavens door' for some time.

We do have other cats in our family, but they enjoy the creature comforts of the home inside rather than out. I'm sure I saw one of them crossing his legs the other day by the back door, because he didn't want to go outside and do his business due to the weather. It was definately a sight to see! I half expected him to shake his head vigorously when asked "Do you want out baby boy?" Although this still doesn't stop them from bringing in 'presents' for us - for which I am always greatful!

So once again, thank you to everyone who gave up their time, and gave our girl the affection and attention she enjoyed over the years.

Much love to all!