Names on the buses

918 Fiveways Wilf

Connections with Brighton and Hove : Wilfred – known as ‘Fiveways Wilf’ – was an extraordinary character who didn’t subscribe to the generally accepted notion of ‘cat’. Adopted with his brother Alfred from the RSPCA in 2009 by the Burley family of Lowther Road, it was only following Alfie’s death that Wilf took to wandering the streets of Fiveways. Following initial surprise and slight confusion at the sight of a big red fluffy Persian out and about on his own, Wilf’s confidence, slow purposeful meanderings, love of greeting passers-by and appreciation of neighbours’ sofas plus his enjoyment of watching tradespeople at work and visits to local shops and businesses quickly made him a popular sight in the neighourhood. Wilf’s fame spread worldwide after a Facebook page was created for people to share their photos of meeting Wilf around Fiveways (and so that his owners could keep tabs on his adventures,) creating a friendly online community of over 2,700 followers from over 40 countries. A demand for Wilf ‘merchandise’ led to badges and Christmas cards being sold with all profits donated to local charity 'Lost Cats Brighton' – Wilf raised over £1000 to help this local charity care for cats less fortunate than himself, with fundraising still continuing in his name. In his later life, Wilf didn’t wander Fiveways on his own due to his increasing arthritis and worries over his terrible road sense, so instead took accompanied walks to visit favourite Fiveways businesses, notably Beaumonts Estate Agents and The Flour Pot Bakery where he hoovered up crumbs and had his own chair to sit and people watch. ‘Wilf Meet-Ups’ regularly attracted 50+ people from all over the country keen to make a fuss of him and take a selfie. He was also often seen on the bus going to vet appointments in Hove - he loved to sit on his owner's knee and look out of the window. Sadly, Wilf was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease and despite treatment, the illness quickly progressed. He passed away gently with dignity and love at home on Friday 6th October 2017, aged 16. For more information about Wilf, his fundraising and how he brought smiles to Fiveways, please visit www.facebook.com/fivewayswilf

918 Scania Omnidekka - name added in October 2017. In March 2018 images of cats added to windows. Bus sold in December 2019.

Fiveways Wilf

Arrival at Fiveways on the first day out with Jo (Wilf's owner) and Mike Cheesman, Brighton & Hove Buses.