Guys, Jesmond’s favourite cat Baxter has sadly died

Baxter, the beloved black and white cat who ruled Acorn Road, has died.

The whole of Jesmond is in bits following the news that he was put down on Monday after a battle with renal failure.

His death was announced by his owners, the Clothier family, on an Instagram account dedicated to Baxter.

In a statement shared yesterday, 8th April, they explained Baxter was almost 14, and that his life  was full of “love, curiosity, adventure, and connection.” They wrote: “Baxter was more than just a cat to us – he was family, a constant source of joy, mischief, and comfort. But he was also something incredibly special to so many others.

“We’ve been deeply moved by the kindness, love, and support shown to Baxter over the years. The messages, photos, paintings, treats, and gentle pats on the street mean the world to us- and to him. He truly loved his little kingdom, and he adored all of you who stopped to say hello.

“Thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts, for being part of his journey. Baxter may have taken his final nap, but the pawprints he’s left behind will stay with us forever.”

We’re not crying, you’re crying.

One of Baxter’s favourite hangouts was Local, a coffee shop located on Acorn Road where he was the unofficial mascot. In a tribute posted to their Instagram, Local wrote: “We are so heartbroken at the loss of our favourite regular. Baxter was part of the team from day one, he basically ran Acorn Road and he was our beloved mascot.

“18 Acorn Rd will forever be Baxter’s corner.”

They’re right, Acorn Road without Baxter just doesn’t feel right.

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In the comments of Local’s post, more tributes have been pouring in from Baxter’s friends and admirers, past and present. One user, Alyssa, shared her memories of Baxter, writing: “Oh my heart. I went to uni there, but I’m from New York. I’d go back every year to see friends and go find and pet him. He brought me and so many others so much joy.”

Another reminisced on their memories of him and his mischievous nature, adding: “I remember watching him one day absolutely bold as brass sitting an inch from some poor girl’s face trying to steal a bite of her Gregg’s! Absolute legend.”

One simply said: “This is actually the saddest news I’ve heard all year”, whilst another wrote: “Used to love seeing this little man he brightens up the day.”

Some even suggested a commemorative plaque be installed in his memory.

Baxter belonged to Philippa Clothier, a Jesmond resident and managing director of PR and marketing firm Clothier Lacey. But he touched the lives of all who passed through Acorn Road.

As one viewer commented, this is honestly heartbreaking news. Rest easy, Baxter.

Featured image via @local_ncl