He may have been more famous for not being in it, but the house the late Hamish McHamish called home has been put up for sale.
Hamish became St Andrews’ world famous town cat after adopting a nomadic life, stalking the auld grey toon, posing for pictures with tourists and roaming the streets until his death in 2014.
While his flighty exploits earned him a statue in the centre of town, a book, a Facebook page and numerous television appearances over his lifetime, it is worth remembering that Hamish did have a home to go to – and it’s about to have a new owner.
The property at 4 Loudens Close, where Hamish occasionally rested his fluffy ginger head, has been put on the market by retired BBC producer Marianne Baird, and she admits the unique selling point means there will be no shortage of offers forthcoming.
“Hamish was a lovely cat but I think he found this house and garden too small as he used to go wandering and find a lot of friends,” Ms Baird said.
“I had him since he was a kitten and he turned into a bit of a legend, so it is a bit of a wrench to leave this place.
“St Andrews is a very special place and this house has been one of the gems I think.”
Miss Baird said she was now going to live closer to family in the Isle of Wight, adding: “I don’t really want to leave St Andrews but I’m getting older and I’m on my own, so I guess they want me to be a bit closer to home.”
Hamish wandered the streets of St Andrews on a daily basis and stopped off in a range of places, from student flats to shop windows.
Born in 1999, he rose to fame following the publication of a book about his life, and he was often spotted in and around South Street, close to his original home.
Such was his popularity, local residents and supporters rallied around to raise money for a lasting tribute to Hamish, and a statue was unveiled in his honour by Fife Provost Jim Leishman in the town’s Church Square.
Hamish, of course, was alive to see that day and took it in his inimitable stride, but he passed away a few months later at the grand old age of 15 after suffering from a chest infection.
Fear not though, as anyone who wishes to lay down where Hamish once did can do so for a cool £375,000.
