Sybil (cat) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sybil
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Sybil, in her employment as the
Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office |
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| Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office | |
| In office September 2007 – January 2009 |
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| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Prime Minister | Gordon Brown |
| Preceded by | Humphrey (1997) |
| Succeeded by | Freya (2012) |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 2006 London, United Kingdom |
| Died | 27 July 2009 (aged 3) Edinburgh, United Kingdom |
| Occupation | Mouser |
| Owned by | Alistair Darling |
| Namesake | Sybil Fawlty |
Sybil (born 2006 – died July 27, 2009) was a special cat who lived at 10 and 11 Downing Street in London. These famous addresses are where the British Prime Minister and other important government officials work and live. Sybil was named after a character from a TV show called Fawlty Towers. She was the beloved pet of Alistair Darling, who was the Chancellor of the Exchequer at the time. This means he was in charge of the country's money.
Sybil: A Special Cat at Downing Street
Her Special Job
In September 2007, Sybil arrived at Downing Street. She was a black and white cat. She was the first cat to live there in many years, since a cat named Humphrey left in 1997. Cats like Sybil often have an unofficial job: they are known as "Chief Mousers." Their job is to catch mice and keep the buildings clear of pests.
Life at Downing Street
Sybil lived at both 10 and 11 Downing Street. These buildings are very old and important. Having a cat like Sybil helped to keep the historic offices free from mice. She became quite well-known because of where she lived and her special role.
Moving On
In January 2009, Sybil moved from London to Edinburgh, Scotland. She went to live with Alistair Darling's family there. Sadly, Sybil died in Edinburgh on July 27, 2009, after a short illness. She was only three years old.
