Thousands of Cornwall locals have rallied around a local cat who was banned from the local Costa.
Dillon, a ‘well-loved’ resident of St Austell, was banned from the coffee shop after a customer complained about his presence.
His banishment has sparked outrage and even spurred locals to create a petition to reinstate his Costa privileges.
Lilith Hodgson began the petition, which has now garnered almost 1,500 signatures from the small community of just 20,000.
She said: ‘Dillon’s presence in Costa is more than just a pleasant sight- it’s a mental health booster we didn’t know we needed.
‘We are encouraging local support in providing a voice for Dillon, and the community’s desire to see him returned to his favourite lounging spot inside Costa.’
But Costa has doubled down on their decision, with a spokesperson saying: ‘Dillon the cat has been a well-loved visitor to our franchise owned and operated store in Pentewan Park.
‘However, in line with our policy, only assistance animals and well-behaved dogs (in our dog-friendly stores) are permitted in our stores.’
Customers have even shared testimonies of their experiences with Dillon as a sign of support.
Petition signer Judith wrote: ‘Ban the dogs as well and make it equal. One complaint doesn’t make you ban Dillon, have a heart.’
Amir pointed out: ‘Cats are a source of comfort, especially to lonely people.’
‘One person complains, then tell them to go somewhere else, not the cat,’ Rebecca wrote.
At Stevenage station in London, however, the local Costa branch has a small box marked ‘CAT’S BOX’ sitting underneath the sugar and stirrers for a local celebrity.
Nala is a ginger cat who spends most of his days greeting commuters who come and go through the station.
Even the Mayor of Stevenage shook Nala’s paw (ceremonially, of course), showing that Nala has truly left his mark on Stevenage.
And with nearly 30,000 followers on Instagram alone, it’s clear Nala’s fans hope he stays and greets them for a long time to come.
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