Who created the character Larry the Cat? - briefly
The character Larry the Cat was created by the British political cartoonist Martin Rowson. He introduced Larry in a cartoon published in The Guardian newspaper in 2007.
Who created the character Larry the Cat? - in detail
The character Larry the Cat, also known as Larry, is a well-known feline who resides at 10 Downing Street, the official residence and office of the British Prime Minister. Larry's creation and introduction to the public sphere are attributed to the efforts of various individuals and circumstances.
The inception of Larry the Cat can be traced back to the tenure of Prime Minister David Cameron. Cameron's administration recognized the need for a mouser to control the rodent population at 10 Downing Street, a problem that had been noted by previous occupants of the residence. The search for a suitable cat began in early 2011, with the goal of finding an animal that could effectively deter mice while also being a friendly and approachable presence for visitors and staff.
The selection process involved several candidates, but the cat that stood out was a seven-year-old ginger and white British Shorthair named Larry. Larry was chosen for his mousing skills, as well as his calm and affable demeanor. He was officially appointed as the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office on February 15, 2011. This appointment marked the first time in many years that an official mouser had been designated for the residence.
The decision to bring Larry to 10 Downing Street was influenced by several factors. Historically, 10 Downing Street has had a tradition of keeping cats to control the mouse population. The last official cat, Sybil, had passed away in 1997, leaving the residence without a feline resident for over a decade. The return of a cat to the residence was seen as a way to maintain this tradition and address the practical issue of pest control.
Larry's introduction to the public was met with enthusiasm and media attention. His presence at 10 Downing Street quickly became a subject of interest for the press and the public alike. Larry's official duties include patrolling the grounds and buildings of 10 Downing Street, as well as serving as a mascot and source of amusement for those who work and visit the residence.
Since his appointment, Larry has become a beloved and iconic figure in British politics and popular culture. His antics and adventures have been widely documented, and he has even gained a significant following on social media. Larry's presence at 10 Downing Street has not only fulfilled the practical need for a mouser but has also added a touch of charm and whimsy to the official residence of the British Prime Minister. His creation and introduction were the result of a deliberate effort to revive a historical tradition and address a practical need, making him a unique and cherished part of the political landscape.