A CAT dubbed Hexham Hospital's unofficial mascot has been commended for supporting the community.

Yang Bell, owned by Hexham's Glynis Bell, was nominated for the PDSA award at the beginning of the year by Alison Galilian, of Haydon Bridge.

The award recognises animals that display outstanding devotion to their owner or wider society, above and beyond normal companionship and represent an exceptional example of the special relationship between animals and humans.

The award is likened to an OBE in the animal world.

The ginger feline - credited with lifting morale for staff and people visiting the hospital - cheered Alison up after her mum was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

At the time, she said: "My dad and I made regular trips to the chemotherapy unit at Hexham hospital with my mum. Twelve weeks after her diagnosis, she sadly lost her battle.

“Since then, I have found it extremely hard visiting places that I had previously gone with my mum.

"Attending Hexham hospital was very difficult for me as it brought back all the sad memories of my mum’s illness and her chemo sessions. I would walk up to the doors of the hospital with a very heavy heart and a lump in my throat.

“Seeing Yang waiting inside the hospital doors, I’d sit down for a cuddle. He really helped lift my spirits and reminded me that life carries on."

Yang, who has his own Facebook page, travels from his nearby home most days and spends time with patients on the hospital grounds, proudly wearing his NHS bandana. 

As part of the application process, Alison had to collect stories from members of the public as to how he had supported them - including children with autism, people nervous about treatment or going through hard times.

The PDSA has described Yang as a "very deserving recipient of the PDSA Commendation for supporting the community at Hexham General Hospital."

He will now be added to the PDSA's roll of honour.

The cat gained widespread fame after a now-viral text message was shared on social media by a patient recovering from surgery.

A Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson said: “Yang the cat has been a regular visitor to Hexham General Hospital for some time now and we know he brings joy to many patients, visitors and members of staff.

"This commendation shows that the positive impact he has on the community is well recognised.”