No pussy for Merton students
MYSTERY SURROUNDS A decision by Merton College disciplinary authorities to expel one of the most popular members of college. She had only been at the college since Michaelmas, but had already found a place in many students' hearts. According to JCR president Chris Akrill, "Wednesday was getting everywhere". Another Mertonian, Emily Wiffen, added, "she got fed about five times a day", as so many students invited her into their rooms to share meals. Wednesday is a black cat.
Tragedy struck at the end of last term, as college informed students that keeping pets in rooms contravened college regulations. A porter is reported to have given the cat a new home, and a colleague said that the cat was "doing fine".
Head of Merton discipline, Prof Judith Armitage, was not available to explain why the cat was felt to pose a threat to Merton students. However, Chris Akrill speculated that the cat posed a health and safety risk, especially to those who were allergic to it. Nevertheless, he accepted that the cat was "good for college morale".
Wednesday's nine lives may not be up, though. JCR Information Officer, Emily Whitehead, commented that "cats are very devious creatures - she may find her way back". In a further development, Chris Akrill added that he had seen a "cat knocking about" last Thursday, though he conceded that it was too dark to see if it was black or not.
26th Apr 2001