For many years, the ginger tom was a staple at Bassetlaw Hospital, often found somewhere nearby the site’s Maternity entrance, greeting patients and colleagues, as well as bidding a fond farewell to those departing.
His passing was deeply felt across the hospital and the local community, and it was soon clear that something should be done to remember this special feline.
In response, a fundraising page was created with a modest goal of £1,000 to purchase a memorial bench in Jasper’s honour.
In just a few days, the outpouring of love for Jasper saw donations soar beyond £2,000. With the overwhelming support, the Trust’s Estates and Facilities team have created ‘Jasper’s Place,’ which features a bench with a plaque, a small statue of Jasper surrounded by a colourful flower bed, and a quiet area where visitors and staff can take a moment to sit, reflect, and remember the joy he brought to so many.
Amber, Jasper’s owner, shared her appreciation: “I’m so moved by this tribute and knowing that Jasper’s memory will live on at Bassetlaw means the world to the family and I. He brought joy and comfort to everyone he met, and I’m so thankful to everyone who made ‘Jasper’s Place’ possible.”
Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, expressed her gratitude for the community’s generosity: “We are incredibly touched by the support from colleagues and the local community in remembering Jasper.
“His impact on everyone who visited or worked at Bassetlaw Hospital was truly unique, and ‘Jasper’s Place’ is a fitting tribute to a beloved figure. The remaining funds will support important projects within our Trust, and we are grateful for the kindness and generosity of all involved.”
Jasper’s colleagues at the hospital also shared their fond memories: “I’m not even a cat person but I loved this little ginger guy! My favourite story was when he snuck into the Consultants’ Office and ended up getting stuck in there! He would walk me to the Labour Ward doors every shift like a proper little gentleman!”
“The gentlest of ginger souls who would always be there to greet you. No matter how tired or bad your shift was, Jasper would make you smile and lift your heart. I miss him so much. I’d often worry when I hadn’t seen him for a while, especially when the weather was bad. I even thought about giving him a lift home on rainy evenings! But he was never ready to go until he was sure everyone had come and gone, and he’d had his fill of head scratches and tummy tickles.”
“I remember when I first met Jasper, I thought he was injured until I saw the little black box on his collar. Then, of course, he walked me all the way down to my car in his usual slow walk with a few stops for fussing. I definitely miss him around the hospital.”
In total, the Trust spent £1,630 on the project, with the remaining funds being donated to the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity, contributing towards initiatives such as the Bassetlaw Emergency Village Appeal.
‘Jasper’s Place’ is now open for visitors and staff to enjoy, offering a quiet space to take a break, reflect, and honour the memory of a very special cat.
