A CAT from Dorchester has been awarded a certificate for its 'dedication and service' to a local charity shop - by encouraging customers through the door.
Suzy the cat, a local 'celebrity' in Dorchester, has been awarded an honorary volunteering certificate from charity, Oxfam.
Known for her mischief, Suzy struck fame after going through shops down Trinity Street and South Street from late last year.
Her penchant for adventure was welcomed by the business community in the town, with her fans creating a Facebook page to track her daily exploits and whereabouts called Susie's Travels in Dorchester.
One of Suzy’s well-known spots to relax is a dog bed in the window of the Oxfam charity shop on South Street.
Suzy has regularly frequented Oxfam since she became known to the town and has been photographed by passers-by in the streets lazing in the shop window.
She has also made appearances on ITV and BBC regional television news.
Now Suzy has been recognised by the head office of Oxfam for the time she has put into ‘volunteering’ at the shop, which has seen footfall rise since her arrival in the town.
The certificate was presented to Suzy's owner, Jenny Graves by Michael, a volunteer at the Dorchester shop.
A spokesperson for Oxfam confirmed that it was ‘likely’ to be the first time they have awarded a cat a certificate of this kind.
Sally Reynolds, Oxfam Shop Manager in Dorchester, said: “Since Suzy first wandered into our Oxfam shop in October, she has become a very dedicated volunteer.
“While she is usually snoozing in the shop front display, she has done a great job of inviting people inside to say hello and take a look around the store.
“We are always grateful for our volunteers and our furry friend is no different. We cannot thank Suzy enough for her animal efforts in helping raise money for Oxfam.”
Jenny said: “I can’t believe it. They contacted me the other day after having shown Suzy to someone at the offices and sent a certificate due to her raising the profile of the shop.
“I went in and collected the certificate on her behalf.”
Suzy has become something of an icon for Dorchester in recent months, with the sales of her postcards leading to artist Catherine Owen branching out into mugs and other items.
Jenny added: “I just find it hysterical; I can’t believe that people have got mugs with my cat on. You can even get Suzy socks now too.
“You really never know what you’re going to get with Suzy, every day is different. I might have to give up my day job and become her agent at this rate,” she joked.
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