A ‘MUCH-loved’ cat made such an impression during his short yet notorious life that residents have decided to make a statue in his honour.

One-year-old black and white moggy Solomon was dubbed the ‘Leigh parish cat’ and the ‘town mascot’ after his antics became a hit on social media.

Solomon died last month after being run over and grief-stricken residents are planning for the statue to be placed at the St Mary the Virgin Church he often frequented.

Lee Robert McStein, 31, who co-owns 3D model making business Monuments Men in Leigh, is leading the project.

He said: “Solomon was much loved in the town. People would take pictures of him and put them online, and he even had his own Facebook account.

“He truly was the town mascot and he deserves to be remembered forever.

“We are going to make a statue of Solomon to remember him.

“We are also hoping to have a plaque and an engraved photograph for him as well.

“We want the town to get involved, so whether you have a picture or memory or even a plinth for the statue to sit on get in touch with me via e-mail and together we can make this happen.”

As well as visiting St Mary the Virgin parish church in Leigh, Solomon was often seen relaxing in Asda and in pubs as well as calling in at Leigh Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School and various offices in the town centre.

His owner Charlotte Barker, 32, of Eyet Street, Leigh, said: “Our family have been absolutely overwhelmed by all the love, flowers and good wishes from people in the community.

“I think it is lovely to think that so many people loved Solomon as much as we did.

“In his short life he had such great fun.

“It is nice to know he touched so many people’s hearts and will be remembered like this.”

To get involved e-mail monumentmen.initial@gmail.com using the title ‘Solomon statue’.