Beloved Alexander Stadium Cat Millie Dies After 16 Years, Tributes Flow
Millie, the cherished feline who made Birmingham's iconic Alexander Stadium her home for 16 years, has sadly passed away, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for a permanent memorial in her honour.
The black and white cat, who was approximately 20 years old at the time of her death earlier this month, first moved into the Perry Barr athletics stadium in 2009. Over the years, she became a familiar and comforting presence for staff and visitors alike.
A Comforting Presence and Part of the Team
Serco Leisure, which manages the stadium, announced Millie's passing on April 4, describing her as a "much-loved stadium cat" who brought comfort and countless smiles to everyone she encountered.
"She wasn't just a cat, she was part of our team and part of our community," the firm stated. "She will be deeply missed - but never be forgotten."
Millie was known for her early-morning greetings and gentle strolls past visitors, creating a warm atmosphere at the venue. Staff often joked that she was one of the team, especially noting her "big presence" during the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Impact on Generations and Daily Routines
Her influence extended across the entire site:
- Generations of children at the Gymnastics and Martial Arts Centre (GMAC) saw her weekly
- Members of the Perry Fitness Centre grew accustomed to seeing her as part of their daily routines
- She became a comforting face that regular visitors looked forward to encountering
Serco emphasized that Millie had a lasting impact on people, bringing joy and companionship to all who crossed her path at the stadium.
Social Media Tributes and Calls for Memorial
Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in on social media, with many sharing fond memories and suggesting ways to honour her legacy.
Royston Horsley called for a statue to be built in Millie's honour, while Mathew Brown wrote: "A wonderful cat who made everyone smile. She certainly made an impression at the CWG 2022."
Amelia McNally added: "You will always be known as Millie the GMAC cat. You made a wonderful reputation during the Commonwealth Games. Rest in peace sweet girl."
Angela Hill recalled: "I remember her walking around the gym a few months ago; everyone fussing her. She will be missed."
The collective sentiment reflects how Millie transcended being just a stadium cat to become an integral part of the Alexander Stadium community, leaving behind a legacy of joy and comfort that will be remembered for years to come.
