University of East Anglia’s campus cat helps raise money for charity

To raise money for charity, a clothing line based on a university’s “Cat of Many Talents” was created.

Sylvester is often out and about on campus and in the buildings of the University of East Anglia (UEA).

The clever cat regularly attends lectures or sleeps at the library information desk.

Now the red and white beast will be featured on t-shirts and hoodies, with 10% of profits going to Norfolk and Waveney Mind.

Sylvester’s owner Emily Birkett, who lives near the Norwich campus, said: “When he first left I was understandably concerned but having a Facebook page where people post pictures of him enjoying university life , means I always have a lot of eyes watching him.” .

“Sylvester is a lovely character and brings so much joy into my life. It’s encouraging to know he has a lot left to share with the staff and students.

“Anyone who has a pet knows the benefits it can have on your well-being.”

The page is full of posts from students and staff stopping to pet him.

Polly Morgan, Associate Professor of Law, recently wrote: “2pm. Sylvester makes a brief appearance on feminist theory (you’ll recall he’s taken this course before) but is now in the law clinic working with Norfolk Community Law.” I was on the clinic’s debt counseling team and helped out to write an article for the Financial Remedies Journal.

“He’s a cat of many talents.”

The clothing designed by the commercial department of the UEA is available in the UEA campus shop.

Support for Norfolk and Waveney Mind follows a recent collaboration between the charity and the UEA to develop a mindfulness and active hope course.

The only one of its kind in the UK, it aims to help students deal with environmental anxiety, promote self-care and understand how to transform their fear and grief over issues such as climate change.

Find BBC News: East of England Facebook, Instagram And Twitter. If you have a story suggestion via email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk