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Much-loved black and white campus cat has died

Tanya Gupta
BBC News, West Midlands
University of Worcester A black and white cat strolls around a university campus on a paved path. There is a red brick building behind it with a blue sign with white writing that reads Elizabeth Barrett Browning Flats 1-6.University of Worcester
Toby was a familiar face around the campus and loved by students

A much-loved black and white cat who was "part of the family" at the University of Worcester has died.

Staff posted a notice on Facebook to say they were very sad to share that Toby, their "beloved campus cat", had passed away.

"Toby wasn't just a familiar face – he was a friend to many," they said.

"Whether you stopped for a quick cuddle on the way to class or followed his adventures online, he brought a smile to countless people across our community."

The Worcester cat so famous he has his own mural
University of Worcester A close up of Toby's face. He has a black face, a white chin and neck and white whiskers, including just one white whisker above his left eye. He has yellow eyes. He is outside and trees can be seen behind him.University of Worcester
An appeal has gone out for people to share their pictures of Toby

The post said Sara Corfield, "Toby's mum", had asked for anyone with photographs to share them either in the comments or as a direct message.

The pictures are being passed to her so she can see how much he meant to everyone on campus.

"Thank you to everyone who looked out for him over the years – Toby truly was part of the Worcester family," the tribute said.

University of Worcester Toby relaxes on a picnic bench outside a university building.University of Worcester
Toby had his own Instagram page and his own merchandise

During his time at Worcester, Toby became an international social media sensation with his own Instagram page and merchandise.

His social media biography described the kitty as studying Meowcanics.

The famous feline had his own mural and students welcomed him into their accommodation.

He was described as the "unofficial face of the Students' Union" and was known for roaming around campus, sheltering under the table tennis tables, and was loved by students as if he was their own pet, the BBC was told last year.

University of Worcester Toby sits outside in the sunshine, near a shrub, and looks into the distance.University of Worcester
The university said he was one of the family

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