The Whittington Cat monument at the bottom of Highgate Hill has been restored to its former glory following a renovation project funded by Islington Council and the Heritage of London Trust. Islington's mayor, Jason Jackson, joined by red-robed colleagues from across the capital, unveiled the updated limestone cat sculpture on Sunday.
A Beloved Landmark Gets a Makeover
The cat, which has perched atop the Whittington Stone since 1964, is inspired by the rags-to-riches story of Richard "Dick" Whittington, a 14th-century orphan who became a wealthy merchant and Lord Mayor of London. The monument was listed in 1972. Last year, a notice announced that "cleaning, repairs and sharpening of letters" would be carried out, and the finished product was revealed during the annual Whittington Walk, which retraces Whittington's route into the City.
Community Involvement and Youth Engagement
More than 100 children participated in workshops contributing to the restoration project. Eleven-year-old Amen, a pupil at St John's Upper Holloway C of E School, said: "Dick Whittington inspired me by not giving up on the first go but kept on going until he succeeded." Ian Payne, chairman of the London Mayors' Association, said: "The Whittington Stone is a much-loved part of London's story, and it is a privilege to see it being carefully restored. The annual walk is a wonderful tradition that connects the City's leadership with its history, and it is inspiring to see so many young people engaging with that heritage."
