Defib the cat allowed to stay at London ambulance station after 62,000 sign petition

A cat that's lived at a London ambulance station for 16 years will now be staying put - after more than 62,000 people signed a petition against him being evicted.

'Defib' was rescued by staff at the Walthamstow base as a kitten, but management were planning to relocate him due to his old age.

They said his reflexes weren't what they used to be and he'd had a number of 'near misses' with ambulances recently. They also said some members of staff had severe allergies and were unable to make use of the ambulance station during breaks.

But following the outpouring of support, which also saw local MP Stella Creasey urge the health secretary to help stop this 'no fault eviction', the chief executive of London Ambulance Service now says Defib can stay.

In a post on X, Daniel Elkeles said: "I have heard all the feedback about Defib the cat. I do believe that my team were trying to make the best decision for both Defib and all our staff.

"I have listened to the views of the public and many of our staff and we have now agreed that Defib can remain at Walthamstow Ambulance Station.

"Defib is much-loved by staff at Walthamstow Ambulance Station and evidently, he has won the hearts of the public too."

A post on the petition signed Defib reads 'thanks so much for giving one small cat such a huge voice':

"With all your help, love and kindness a decision has been made to let me stay in my beloved home with my amazing friends. Thanks so much for giving one small cat such a huge voice. I cannot express how grateful I am. Nose boops for all!"