TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved hospice cat.

Misty has been keeping people company at the Martlets in Hove for more than 15 years.

She died from heart disease last week and her ashes have been planted into a rose bush in the hospice garden.

A Martlets spokeswoman said: “She chose the hospice as her home over 15 years ago as a young cat.

“Since her arrival, her presence has brought so much warmth, comfort, peace, fun and love to staff, volunteers, patients and their families.

“We know she will be missed by many. If you have a story to tell, please do share it. We’d love to remember together.”

The Martlets, in Wayfield Avenue, Hove, provides care and essential services to people affected by terminal illness. Misty was a familiar sight to everyone at the hospice.

One person paying tribute said: “Both my parents were in the Martlets. My mum adored cats and when she met Misty she was immediately comforted by knowing she was around... when she could no longer communicate, Misty would come in and check on her and us.

“When it came to my dad’s turn (six years later) he was so happy to be reunited with Misty.”

Another said: “Misty was, indeed, a very special cat.

“While my brother was being cared for at Martlets, she would come and visit him every day, look him in the eye, accept a small stroke, do a systematic check around his room and then carry on down the corridor to the next person.”