A CAT which spent over a decade charming visitors at Andover railway station has been immortalised with the unveiling of a bronze statue.

The event, attended by nearly a hundred well-wishers, including station staff and members of the Andover community, marked the end of a year-long effort to honour the cat who became a symbol of the station.

Jess, a black-and-white feline with a reputation for its grumpy yet endearing demeanour, had called Andover station home since 2010.

Abandoned by his previous owners, Jess was adopted by the station staff, who took it in, providing food, shelter, and a lot of love.

READ MORE: Staff pay tribute after Jess the 'loving and gentle' Andover train station cat dies

Over the years, Jess became a familiar and comforting presence to commuters and staff alike, its quiet companionship leaving a mark on all who passed through the station.

Sadly Jess died in October last year at the age of 19.

The statue unveiling ceremony was held at the very spot Jess often roamed - the station’s ticket office.

The life-size bronze statue, created by Andover artist Amy Goodman, was revealed by David Holmes, the flagship station manager, and Tracey Jones, a ticket officer who played an important role in caring for Jess during his years at the station.

Tracey, speaking to the Advertiser, shared her deep affection for Jess.

“He was our beloved cat," she said.

"I have two cats at home, but I loved Jess more than anyone. It’s probably because I spent more time with him at the station. He had a special place in all our hearts.”

Tracey recalled how, after Jess was abandoned by its original owners, the cat kept returning to the station, where the staff eventually made it their own, ensuring Jess was well-cared for until its death. 

“Jess was more than just a station cat, he was a friend, a companion, and now, a part of Andover’s history forever,” she added.

The statue, which now stands proudly in the ticket office, was made possible through a successful fundraiser initiated by Andy Woods, who used to work at S & J Maddocks, a funeral directors located near the station.

Remembering his first encounter with Jess, Andy said: “I know exactly the day I first met Jess. It was on July 4, 2016, when I stepped into S & J Maddocks.

"He visited us every morning. When we had clients, he would go in, sit with them. He was loved by all.”

Andy also shared a light-hearted memory of how Jess would magically appear at the sound of a cat treat packet opening, no matter where he was.

The idea for the statue came to Andy during a trip to Edinburgh, where he was inspired by the statue of Greyfriars Bobby, another famous animal.

What started as a simple idea quickly gained momentum, with donations pouring in from the local community and beyond, including contributions from Hampshire County Council's community grant scheme.

In total, the fundraiser reached its goal of £5,000, enabling the project to move forward.

The statue, which incorporates Jess’s ashes, was meticulously crafted by Amy Goodman at the Talos Art Foundry in Quarley.

Although Amy couldn’t attend the unveiling, her work has been widely praised for capturing Jess’s spirit.

SEE ALSO: Thousands raised to honour 'loving' station cat as fundraiser reaches target

Station manager David Holmes commended Amy’s artistry and the collaborative efforts of Andy and Tracey. 

“This statue wouldn’t have happened if not for Andy and Tracey," he said.

"Amy has done a wonderful job. Jess has become an important part of Andover. He was part of our Andover family. With the statue, he has become part of the heritage and history of Andover.”