Northern asks customers to help name ‘The Cat’ who has become part of the team

The skinny kitty wandered into the operator’s TrainCare Centre two years ago and decided to stay after being treated to a meal.

The team quickly became fond of the friendly feline and they have made sure she has everything she needs. They have bought two beds for her and routinely chip in for cat food and vet bills.

Affectionately referred to as “The Cat”, she spends her days chasing mice and sleeping at the TrainCare Centre, which is open 24 hours a day.

After producing a shortlist of four names – Mooch, Birdie, Sassy and Debbie – staff are asking customers to pick one during a vote on Northern's Instagram today.

Neil Cornforth, a senior team leader for Northern, said: “Everyone looks after her, even the drivers come down and bring her food. She’s a cracking little cat and she’s really friendly.

“She catches mice around the place and there are a few other cats who try and infiltrate the depot, but she keeps them away because she knows she’s got a good thing here.

“We were thinking about giving her a name and we came up with a dozen before drawing four out of a hat. We’re looking forward to finding out which one people prefer.”

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.