Baildon’s high street is now missing one of its most famous and regular customers – a ginger cat named Bert.

The wandering feline, who belonged to James Bye and his family since 2015, became something of a social media star in the town.

The rescue cat, who was around eight years old, spent most of his days visiting shops, cafes and takeaways, dog groomers, and hairdressers.

He was the face of a special charity calendar which raised £500 and even learned how to use zebra crossings.

Bert sadly died in August following a short illness, but he will not be forgotten by those who shared their sightings online and the dogs he kept in check.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Baildon Bert around town. Pictures: James ByeBaildon Bert around town. Pictures: James Bye

“He’d pretty much go anywhere,” James told the Telegraph & Argus.

“It was difficult without locking him in all the time, the balance between him enjoying life and not being locked inside.

“He’s been in most of the local shops, he liked visiting the takeaways.

“He was a bit different at home. He was a bit more aloof, he could be affectionate but he was definitely more charming and affectionate when he was out on the street and going to see people. When he came back he was a bit more like a stroppy teenager.

“He had actually learned how to use the zebra crossing in the village, luckily most motorists knew to look out for him.

“Despite being well fed at home, he loved going to takeaways to try and charm them for food. ‘Wok this Way’ was his favourite.

“I wasn’t on Facebook originally but I’d heard these stories and I joined mainly just to follow him. We didn’t really know the extent of it.”

Originally called Sebastian, Bert lived as a stray before the RSPCA tried to settle him with a family who owned a dog.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Baildon Bert sadly passed away this August. Pictures: Via James ByeBaildon Bert sadly passed away this August. Pictures: Via James Bye

He was put back up for adoption before moving into James’ home of cat lovers.

When the family shared the news of Bert’s passing, almost 300 messages of condolence and memories were left by his fans.

“It was extremely comforting really,” James said.

“It was quite sad. We hadn’t said anything straight away but I’d heard a couple of people had got wind of the news. So many people took an interest in him.

“It got a huge response.”

One follower said: “He will definitely live on through all the lovely memories. And even down here in Torquay where he had followers too.”

Another Bert enthusiast said: “I will miss my little ginger friend. What a legend he was.”

A fan from France said: “Bert was such a character. It’s been lovely following Bert here in France, all our friends here liked knowing what he was up to.”

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletter to get updates sent straight to your inbox.

Have you got a story for us? Email newsdesk@telegraphandargus.co.uk, contact us here , WhatsApp us on 07720403052 or call us on 01274 705292.