“He wasn’t just my cat – he belonged to everyone”: Daventry honours Salem with statue appeal
The three‑legged cat was a much‑loved local celebrity in the town
Daventry residents have come together to remember the town’s cherished three‑legged cat, with a campaign to create a permanent statue in his honour.
Salem, often described as a local celebrity, became a comforting and familiar presence as he roamed the town centre, greeting passers‑by and settling into shop windows and local businesses.
The much‑loved feline, who built up a large social media following through the Salem’s Adventures – Daventry Facebook page, previously had one of his legs amputated after it was broken in several places.
His owner, Erin Hills, confirmed on Wednesday that Salem had died aged 15 after being hit by a car. She said he had “a way of bonding with people” and brought joy to the community wherever he went.
A GoFundMe organised by Discover Daventry for a memorial statue has raised more than £3,200 within 24 hours – a response the shopping district described as an “overwhelming” reflection of how much the community loved him.
A familiar face across the town
Salem was known for his friendly, curious nature and could often be found curled up in shop windows, rolling over for attention, or settling into beds kept for him by local businesses. Despite having only three legs, he was a keen explorer.
Clemmie Clayton from Discover Daventry said: “You couldn’t go around the town in the summer without bumping into him. He’d wander into shops, sit in the cinema, and just make himself at home.”
She said residents had suggested memorial plaques at first, but organisers felt a statue would be more fitting.
“He was such an unusual cat and everybody loved him. We thought, why don’t we have a statue like Greyfriars Bobby? Something permanent, something the whole town can share.”
The response from the community has surpassed expectations, with hundreds of donations made in less than a day. “The people in Daventry are incredibly generous – it just shows what a big‑hearted community this is.'' Clayton said.
''Salem meant so much to people.”
The proposed statue would be placed near Salem’s favourite spots in the town, creating a place for residents to remember him and reflect on the joy he brought.
Hills, said she has been overwhelmed by the support and tributes for Salem. She said: “I always knew he was loved, but seeing people share their memories has been incredible.
“It comforts me, because it really shows how amazing he was.” She added.
Hills explained that Salem had a rare ability to connect with people – even those who did not usually like cats. She said: “Not everybody is a cat lover, but Salem had this way of bonding with people.''
“He just had something special.”
While Salem was her pet, she said he belonged to the whole town in spirit. “Yes, he was mine but in many ways, he wasn’t.
“It felt like shared ownership. People looked out for him, and I’d get messages if anyone was worried. That love kept him safe.” She added.
Remembered for resilience and joy
Hills said she hopes Salem will be remembered most for his determination. “Even with three legs, my God, did he get around,
“The joy he brought and the way he brought people together was just so special.” She added.
Discover Daventry had previously held competitions and events inspired by Salem, including a Christmas craft challenge and plans for a children’s book about his adventures.
Organisers said Salem’s memorial fundraiser remains open, inviting contributions and encouraging those unable to donate to continue sharing memories and photos on the Facebook group.
Hills added, "It would be so lovely to have a statue people can visit. Somewhere we can all remember him."