New road named after feline internet star

Fiona, Will and Chris Parker celebrate the naming of the street Molly Meadows in Yate

A cat that became famous at a Tesco store has had a street named after her.

Molly Meadows at Newland Homes’ Great Oaks development, in Yate, pays tribute to the feline who captured the hearts of the community.

Sadly Molly died in an accident in 2022 and her passing prompted 12-year-old Will Gray to suggest the street name in her honour.

Will said: "I felt so sad when I heard the news of her unfortunate passing, this is why I felt I needed to somehow preserve the memory of her for generations to come."

"When my mum asked me and my siblings if we had any name ideas for an upcoming street very near my school, I just knew it had to be something to do with Molly, the beloved cat who I will never forget," he added.

Molly, a frequent visitor to the Tesco Extra store as well as Yate Shopping Centre, became a local celebrity due to her friendly nature and endearing presence.

Her presence was said to bring joy to shoppers and staff alike and her story quickly spread, earning her a fan base that extended well beyond the town.

Fiona, Molly’s owner, set up a Facebook page to keep track of Molly’s antics across Yate, whilst also reassuring people that she had a home and was well-fed.

The public group attracted almost 4,000 followers.

Fiona said the suggestion for a road name by Will was "so unexpected and emotional".

"The people who choose to live here may never understand the meaning behind the name, but I will, and I will always be thankful for the thoughtfulness of this wonderful young man who suggested it,” she said.

The Molly Meadows street sign is at the entrance to Great Oaks, where 84 three and four bedroom zero carbon homes are being constructed.