An online campaign has saved an “iconic” Lichfield character.
Levi the Monkey has been swinging on his bar in the window of Friary Shoes for more than 20 years.
But when the shop announced on its Facebook page that he would turned his last twirl, hundreds of people urged his owners to save him.
Some parents said the monkey was the only way they could get their children to try on shoes, while others claimed he was part of Lichfield’s history.
And their efforts to save the city’s favourite furry friend have paid off with Levi set to continue being the oldest swinger in town after a u-turn by Friary Shoes.
“We would like to say a very big thank you to everyone who has commented on Levi The Monkey,” said a spokesperson for the shop. “It is lovely to see how much support and love has been shown towards him.
“So we would like to announce that all the support has gone towards a new motor being ordered for Levi, so once Levi is back in action swinging the day away, people will all have to come and pay him a visit.”
