James Bowen with Bob the Street Cat on his shoulders at the time Peter Gruner first spoke to him

BOB, the “street” cat, whose life with a Big Issue seller inspired a best-selling book and hit movie, is to be immortalised with a statue.

The monument will be unveiled on Islington Green next week, just over a year since the cat died after being hit by a car.

His astonishing rise to fame began when Bob’s owner, James Bowen, was interviewed by the Tribune more than a decade ago.

Reporter Peter Gruner had taken an interest in how the moggie spent all day on Mr Bowen’s shoulders as he sold the magazine near Angel tube.

A publishing house saw the story about how Mr Bowen’s friendship with the cat had helped him kick a drug addiction and turned it into the book, A Street Cat Named Bob. There have been two films too – one of which recreates the scene when Peter met Bob (and Mr Bowen) for the first time.

Crafted by sculptor Tanya Russell, the lifelike statue will be positioned on the green overlooking Waterstones bookstore, where Mr Bowen wrote his first book recounting their journey together.

He said: “My extraordinary four-legged friend has inspired books, films and now this wonderful statue. I am so appreciative the legions of supporters who have donated in many different ways to make this possible. It will ensure that his legacy lives on in Islington Green for all to see, a special place which holds so many important memories in our journey together.

“My hope is that when people visit Bob’s statue, or as they simply pass by, that they will take a moment to remember that everyone deserves a second chance and that no one is alone.”

The unveiling will take place at noon on Thursday and fans are invited to watch on Facebook Live from 11.55am by visiting www.facebook.com/streetcat.bob.official