A shopkeeper has paid tribute to one of Offenham’s most famous residents.
Anyone who has visited the post office on Main Street will likely be familiar with the sight of Mushu, the black and white cat, lying across the counter.
Iney Penlington, who runs the shop, has been reflecting on Mushu’s life following his death earlier this month, aged 15.
“When we moved to Offenham nearly nine years ago, Mushu found his true calling – the post office,” said Iney.
“He spent most of his days, sat on the post office, ‘assisting’ customers, ‘helping’ them with their transaction, nuzzling their hands as they tried to put their pin in or stick a stamp on their letter, pulling their arm back if they stopped stroking him.
“The Post Office was his domain and he loved it. Often spreading himself along the counter, on top of anything you might be working on.
“Children adored him and most of our customers loved him.
"Mushu has always loved a cuddle, wrapping himself around anyone's neck like a stole and he would sit there as long as you let him."
He could often be seen out and about in Offenham, even popping in to say hello to neighbours.
Iney said: “He wasn’t shy.
“Once I had a text from our neighbour, telling me Mushu had just strolled into the bathroom whilst her husband was sitting on the toilet!
“Our supplier of eggs, Clayhall Farm, once came back to us after delivering, to bring Mushu home!
“He had jumped into his van outside the shop and appeared when they got to South Littleton!”
Unfortunately, Mushu’s adventurous spirit ultimately played a part in his demise.
“Mushu had no fear, and the road was always a worry,” said Iney.
“He would lay in the middle of it looking at cars as if to say ‘come on if you think you’re hard enough!'
“We have had customers come through the door white after nearly hitting him.
“Sadly, that happened last Saturday.
“He saw me outside the shop, ran across the road, and a car hit him. It happened in front of me, he didn’t survive.
“He died in my husband’s arms, surrounded by those who loved him.”
The driver responsible didn’t stop, but Iney holds no grudges and despite knowing their registration, will not be trying to track them down.
“We need to forgive. It was an accident,” she said.
“Mushu was a character who was loved by many, but most of all, by his family.”