Cyril the squirrel to avoid extermination - Update

A beloved squirrel in Woolwich, south east London, will not be harmed, it has been confirmed. A petition to save Cyril, who lives at the Royal Arsenal development, attracted more than 5,000 signatures.



The campaign was fueled by rumours that Cyril may be targeted by pest controllers. Residents branded those responsible for reporting the cheeky critter to property management service Rendall & Rittner as "scoundrels".

A spokesman from Rendall & Rittner said: “We have been listening to all those concerned about Cyril and want to assure the community that he will not be harmed." However, residents have been urged to stop feeding the fluffy friend and encouraging him into their properties.



The spokesman added: "Given Cyril’s capabilities at causing a stir we do request that residents across the development leave him to his own devices and refrain from feeding him or encouraging him into their property, as this will encourage his behaviour when it is not always welcome. We are seeking specialist advice on the best methods to discourage Cyril from causing damage to homes or offices. It is in Cyril’s best interests to be left alone to find his own habitat, where he can forage for food naturally, away from human intervention.”