Barney would spend hours lying on a bridge over the New River

The bridge linking River View with Gentleman’s Row and (inset) Barney

More than 300 people have signed a petition calling for a bridge over the New River to be named in honour of a cat described as “the most famous in the whole of Enfield”.

Friendly feline Barney spent most of his days in and around River View, a footpath that follows the New River Loop in Enfield Town, and his favourite spot was said to be the bridge that linked the path with Gentleman’s Row – often blocking people’s way.

After Barney’s tragic death, residents are now demanding the bridge be renamed in his honour via a petition on Change.org.

Petitioner Alan Boyle said: “Barney was probably the most famous cat in the whole of Enfield!

“He spent most days out on River View – particularly when it was sunny. His favourite spot was the bridge that linked Gentleman’s Row directly with River View. He would lie in the middle of the bridge and wouldn’t move for anyone.

“People would pat or stroke him as they were on their way to school or work or to catch a train. Everyone knew Barney. He was legendary!

“Several dog owners used to say they were unable to use the bridge as Barney wouldn’t move and wasn’t scared of their dog – so they had to walk further down to the Jephcott Bridge to cross the river.

“He was a familiar sight both before and after he had the tips of his ears removed because of skin cancer.”

When Barney died, around 150 messages of condolence were posted on Love Your Doorstep’s Facebook page and he also since featured on the brightly-coloured mural that links Cecil Road with Palace Gardens.

Sign the ‘Barney’s Bridge’ petition:
Visit change.org/p/a-bridge-for-barney-campaign

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