A BASINGSTOKE cat who inspired a book will turn 21 this month and his owner is celebrating.

Author Sue Lawrence is getting ready to mark Harry’s birthday on April 20. Harry was the inspiration for Sue’s book, Harry, the cat’s tale.

Sue, who has had Harry since he was eight-weeks-old, plans to stay at home and celebrate with a big cake, surrounded by relatives.

Sue said: “It’s a big celebration because my son wanted a brother, so we decided to get a pet. My son chose him, so he has been in the family for a long time. He’s become one of us and he is referred to as ‘Harry’, not ‘the cat’.”

The children’s author, who lives in Sherfield-on-Loddon, also has an Instagram account for Harry, which has reached 17,000 followers.

READ MORE: Canine Milo helps to bring joy to staff and students at school in Basingstoke

Sue said: “He’s a big part of the family. He sits down when he has dinner and comes up to bed when he’s called.

“We look after him. He is loved so much and that’s how he has lasted so long. He is so cared for.”

Due to his age, Harry now walks on a lead instead of going outside. Sue said: “He has now become an indoor cat, due to his age. We go out together to stay out of harms way.

“Harry has been more of a support to me. After a really bad day, I can have a chat with him. I struggled in lockdown but Harry was my support blanket.”

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