A CAT who was a "local celebrity" has sadly passed away after being hit by a speeding driver in Worle.

Fernley was well-known in the local community for his frequent visits to The Old Manor Inn.

Fernley's owner said: "Fernley was a bit of a local celebrity. He was very well known for dropping in to the local pub, The Manor, very sneakily. He was very well loved by humans and other animals alike."

The incident has raised concerns about speeding in the area, especially on the Queensway, which could pose a risk not only to beloved pets but also to people.

The owner added: "Fernley was the second of our cats to be killed on this road in a year! It could be a child or a cyclist next."

Posting on Facebook, a spokesperson from The Old Manor Inn said: "It is with great sadness that local Manor Pub celebrity Fernley the cat has passed away this week after being hit by a speeding driver the Queensway.

"Fernley was often seen in the beer garden most nights with all the evening regulars having cuddles who would get excited every time they saw him, roaming the garden, often breaking into the pub when no one was looking and following everyone home, we will all miss the little rascal."

When asked by the Weston Mercury on what measures will be put into place to prevent things like this happening in the future, Marc Aplin, councillor for North Worle, said: "Like many people, I was upset to hear that Fernley had been killed on the Queensway - he was a local celebrity and it's sad local people won't be able to enjoy his company at The Manor anymore.

"I've spoken to residents and joined their action group. As a first step, I've written to the council's senior engineer asking for ideas and direction in terms of what would be possible on the Queensway.

"The idea would be to stop the dangerous driving and noise we're experiencing, especially late at night, without adding congestion for commuters.

"As a community, we'll keep pushing for a solution and I'd like to say thank you to Fernley's owner for turning such a sad event into positive action by bringing everyone together."