A resident of Low Fell, Gateshead, is continuing her unique community initiatives by compiling a directory of local cats, a year after orchestrating a feline mayoral election that garnered a remarkable turnout. Hayley Hawkins, inspired by similar events in the United States, organised a poll featuring 13 cat candidates, which saw 77.3% of participating residents cast their vote. This figure notably exceeded the turnout for both the most recent general election and the 2016 Brexit referendum.
Ms Hawkins expressed that her motivation stems from a desire to counteract what she perceives as a prevalent sense of division by introducing 'silliness and togetherness' into the local area. She believes that even small, community-focused projects can empower individuals and foster a stronger sense of local identity and camaraderie. The success of the cat mayoral election, which saw a cat named Patrick elected, appears to have resonated positively within the community.
Building on this success, Ms Hawkins is now developing the 'Kitty Pages Low Fell' directory. This publication will feature profiles of cats residing in the area, with the intention of placing copies in local pubs for public enjoyment. Her hope is that the directory will encourage residents to actively look out for the profiled felines during their walks, fostering a playful interaction with their surroundings and encouraging conversations about the neighbourhood's furry inhabitants.
Naomi Radcliffe, the owner of the victorious mayoral cat Patrick, confirmed her family's enjoyment of the election, highlighting the appreciation for Ms Hawkins' efforts. She noted that her children particularly relish telling their friends about their cat's mayoral status, indicating the positive impact these light-hearted activities can have on younger members of the community and their engagement with local life.
Currently, Ms Hawkins is accepting submissions for cat profiles to be included in the directory. She is also welcoming ideas for cat-related articles, encouraging suggestions that are 'the dafter the better', further emphasising the project's aim to inject humour and whimsy into local interactions. This ongoing effort illustrates a grassroots approach to community building, focusing on shared interests and a sense of playful engagement.