Memory of Street Cat Bob celebrated in new Christmas film

Christmas is a lonely and difficult time for so many. 

James Bowen knows that only too well, having struggled to scrape a living on the streets for years.

Had it not been for his friendship with a remarkable stray tomcat called Bob, his future may have been very different.

Blue Cross knew the very special bond they shared, as we helped the inseparable pair at our mobile vet clinic in Islington, nearby to where they sold the Big Issue to passers-by.

James’ memoir, A Street Cat Named Bob became an international bestseller and was adapted into a blockbuster film four years ago.
Very sadly, Bob passed away earlier this year, age at least 14.

At the time, Blue Cross sent our love to sympathy to James. The pair had continued to support Blue Cross over the years, most recently lending their support to our A Link in the Chain report, which shone a light on the benefits pets bring to those living in poverty.

Paying tribute to Bob, James said: ”Bob saved my life. It’s as simple as that. He gave me so much more than companionship. With him at my side, I found a direction and purpose that I’d been missing. The success we achieved together through our books and films was miraculous. He’s met thousands of people, touched millions of lives. There’s never been a cat like him. And never will again. I feel like the light has gone out in my life. I will never forget him."

Now, treasured memories of their remarkable life together are to be celebrated in the sequel to the original hit film, A Christmas Gift from Bob.

In it, recovering heroin addict James - played by actor Luke Treadaway - looks back at the last Christmas he and Bob spent on the streets and how the ginger tomcat helped him through one of his toughest times.

Nicola Pearcey, President UK and Europe for Lionsgate, distributors of the film, said: “We truly believe this is the perfect film to kick start the Christmas season. At its core, the film is a story of friendship and support, two themes that are particularly prevalent during the festive season. And this year, we could all use a heartwarming story to get us in the festive spirit.” 

A Christmas Gift from Bob is now out on DVD. 

Read the full film guide here.