Animal lovers from as far afield as the United States have donated almost £5,000 to a memorial fund for a ''bus stop cat'' which died after suffering ''horrific injuries''.

The sad demise of the ginger cat, called Missy, has prompted hundreds of people to donate to a justgiving.com fundraising page to pay for a commemorative plaque.

Missy was known by many residents of Leigh Park in Havant, Hampshire as ''the bus stop cat'' because it would spend much of its time at the number 39 bus stop in Dunsbury Way.

But Missy was found last week by its owner, Richard McCormick, with severe injuries which may have been caused by an attack or a road accident.

The 13-year-old feline was taken to a vet and had to be put down after it suffered a fractured skull and a broken jaw, and had its teeth knocked out.

Flowers, photos, children's drawings and messages have been left at the bus stop in memory of Missy.

The appeal has so far collected £4,527 with money left over from the planned memorial plaque to be donated to an animal charity.

One donor, Sarah, posted: ''So sad.... With sympathy from America!''

Kristi, also from the USA, posted: ''Mr Richard, God has a special place for Missy. She touched so many lives. I wish I'd known her.''

And Alison wrote: ''I read about this today in the United States and wanted to show my support. Rest in peace sweet Missy and remember the joy and happiness you brought to those waiting for the bus over the years.''

Cheryl, from Aberdeenshire, posted: ''I'm not a cat lover, nor am I local. Though I was sickened at the thought that a gentle friendly cat has been injured in such way and has sadly passed away and I just send condolences to the owners.''

Glynis posted: ''Loved seeing this cat at the bus stop. Feel so sad x''

Craig Cockram, who set up the appeal, wrote on the fundraising page: ''We would like to raise as much money as possible for a plaque and the remaining monies going to charity for the 39 bus stop cat.

''This poor cat which was loved by many who just sat on a seat on the 39 stop in Dunsbury Way Leigh Park. Loved to be stroked and have the attention it was the most trusting cat. For a few years it would just come along and sit and wait.''

For more information visit crowdfunding.justgiving.com/39busstopcat.

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