by John Prince
Hornsea’s most recognisable feline resident is stepping into print.
Lincoln the much-loved “Tesco cat” has become the star of a new illustrated book celebrating his semi-celebrity status among locals, and to raise money for Hornsea Inshore Rescue.
Lincoln’s owner, Lorraine Clarke, explained how the project began.
Originally from Dorset, she approached writer-illustrator friend Catherine Owen, who had created a similar book about a Dorchester cat.
“I asked if she would want to do a book for Lincoln. She was on board with that and then it’s just grown from there really,” Lorraine said.
At its heart, the story follows Lincoln getting his own job at Tesco as a greeter, beloved by staff and shoppers.
The book promises a quirky slice of Hornsea life. Real residents appear in cameo roles, sketched from photographs in the illustrator’s distinctive style. Young readers are invited to hunt for little fish hidden throughout the pages – a homage to the town’s coastal identity – while adults will recognise familiar faces and settings.
A nod to the Gazette even features on the cover, a playful touch that reflects Lincoln’s fandom.
“He’s a big fan of the Gazette,” Lorraine joked. “It might be where Lincoln read about getting a job.”
In real life the moggy’s routine is modest – from his home, across the road and through the bushes behind the railway track to the store.
Lorraine can keep a check on him with a tracker around his neck.
He first wandered over to the supermarket around five or six years ago, and a Facebook page documenting his regular visits turned from fad to a mini-phenomenon.
He gained notoriety when Tesco wanted to ban him because of health and safety concerns, but the company faced a backlash from residents who threatened to boycott the store.
He now sits in a box on top of a pile of outdoor goods in the entrance most days, welcoming fans to take a photo, but often snoozing and nonchalantly ignoring passers-by.
Proceeds from the book will benefit HIR, which relies entirely on donations for equipment, kit, and the café and shop.
“They do an amazing job – an absolutely amazing job,” Lorraine said.
Her choice underscores the town’s commitment to looking after its own, just as residents look out for Lincoln, even removing treats from his box that could upset his stomach, donated by well-meaning members of the public.
The book is available from the Townhouse in Newbegin and at Hornsea Inshore Rescue, priced £7.
Christine Simms from Hornsea picked up her copy from The Townhouse a couple of days after the book’s launch.
She said: “I’ve bought it for my grandsons. They’re two and two-and-a-half years old. I take them to the supermarket a lot to see Lincoln if he’s there.
“This is a fantastic thing to do. We’ve all got to support Hornsea.”