BASINGSTOKE and District Cats Protection members have paid tribute to long-serving welfare officer Linda Burgess.

Linda, nee James, died unexpectedly in Basingstoke hospital on April 17, aged 68.

She lived in and around the town all her life and married Bob (Robert) in 1964. The two eventually separated but remained on good terms.

After leaving Basingstoke High School, Linda, worked for Barclays Bank, moving to the Shrubbery Maternity Hospital when the working rules of the time prevented her (a married woman) from holding a Barclays managerial position. She spent the remainder of her working life at the civil service, based in town.

Clare Toombes, from Basingstoke and District Cats Protection, said: “Linda began volunteering for Basingstoke and District Cats Protection 15 years ago. Her fellow volunteers remember being impressed by her amazing knowledge of cat care and, in particular, her ability with kittens.

“Over the years, Linda raised countless kitten families in her home, giving them round-the-clock devoted care and attention. Nothing was too much trouble and she would give up any free time and decline any invitation to events in order to make sure the little families were looked after properly.

“Any questions or problems branch members had with their charges were sure to be answered by Linda in a sympathetic and confident manner.

“Linda also found time to support the charity’s fundraising activities, and she was a regular face at fairs and events. This work was duly recognised when she received a Mayor’s Award in 2006.”

Linda also devoted many hours to other charity work, including the Red Cross, at Hungerford.

Peter Hepburn, chief executive of Cats Protection, wrote to the Basingstoke and District branch committee to honour Linda’s dedicated service, passing on his sincere condolences to the branch and to Linda’s family.

The branch members are currently considering a permanent memorial as a tribute.

Linda leaves two daughters, Nicola (Nick) and Deborah, who are now looking after her beloved Persian cats.

For more information on giving a cat a home, go online to basingstoke.cats.org.uk or call 07794 252240.