Sylvester the UEA campus cat gets his own line of merchandise
The Norwich university's furry mascot has become a familiar site on the campus grounds
Last updated 9th May 2023
A cat who has become a familiar site on the grounds of the University of East Anglia is getting his own line of merchandise - to celebrate his new found celebrity status.
Sylvester, a ginger and white shorthair with a distinctive missing tail, is often spotted around the Norwich campus, paying a visit to lecture halls or curling up for a nap in the library.
One post on a Facebook group documenting his adventures reads: “2pm. Sylvester briefly makes an appearance in feminist theory (you will recall he has attended this class before), but is now ensconced in the law clinic, working alongside the Norfolk Community Law Clinic debt advice team and helping me write an article for the Financial Remedies Journal.
"He is a cat of many talents.”
However the mischievous moggy is now cashing in on his cult status, with the UEA launching a range of t-shirts and hoodies displaying his likeness.
10% of the profits will go to Norfolk and Waveney Mind. It's not yet known if the part of the proceeds will be used to buy Dreamies.
Sylvester’s owner Emily Birkett who lives near to campus, said:
“When he first started wandering off, I was understandably worried, but having a Facebook page where people post pictures of him enjoying university life means I always have plenty of eyes watching him.
“Sylvester is a lovely character and brings such joy to my life, it’s heartening to know he has plenty to spare to share with the staff and students at UEA.
"Anyone that has a pet knows the benefits they can bring to your sense of wellbeing, I’m over the moon that Sylvester’s popularity is going to help support Norfolk & Waveney Mind who do so much to help local people in their time of need.”
Alice Ladbrooke, Divisional Marketing & Communications Manager for Sport & Commercial Services at the UEA said: “We had been discussing new lines of merchandise featuring campus favourites that better represented people’s time at university."
"Obviously, the first UEA icon I thought of was Sylvester, whose adventures have captured the hearts of students and staff alike.
"With 10% of all profits going to Norfolk and Waveney Mind, we hope to not only spread joy, but also contribute towards a great cause that promotes mental health awareness and support.”