Staff and visitors at the Great Central Railway are mourning the loss of a very special member of their team. The heritage railway has announced the passing of its much-loved traffic department cat, Onslaught, who died peacefully on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, surrounded by those who cared for her.
A Cherished Presence at Loughborough Central
For the past 12 years, the popular feline has been a familiar and cherished presence at Loughborough Central station. She spent much of her time around the traffic office, where she became a well-known and much-loved member of the railway family. Whether greeting visitors, keeping staff company, finding opportunities to share in a packed lunch, or simply enjoying a sunny spot by the station, she brought smiles to everyone she met.
Named After a Warship
Onslaught was named after HMS Onslaught, an Admiralty M-class destroyer vessel which served with the Royal Navy during the First World War. Over the years, countless volunteers, staff, supporters and visitors came to know the station cat, and many made a point of looking out for her during their visits. She quickly became a popular subject for photographs and fond conversations alike.
More Than a Cat
While she may have been a cat by name, to many across the railway she was far more than that. She was a colleague, a mascot, a source of comfort on difficult days and a familiar friend whose presence brought joy to so many people.
Tribute from the Railway
A spokesperson for Great Central Railway said: 'Heritage railways are built by people, but places like ours are also shaped by the characters who make them unique. Onslaught was undoubtedly one of those characters. Everyone at the Great Central Railway would like to thank Onslaught for the companionship, smiles and moments of happiness she brought over the years. The Traffic Office, and indeed the railway itself, will not quite be the same without her. She will be greatly missed.'
