You were so small, so fragile, yet you lived cheerfully for your days with us. Our lives were brightened by your presence. You would destroy your grass ball and anything else we put in your houses. We would send you into space for your daily play then put you back home to bed each night. We would feed you up on Nickel Nuts, Almonds, seeds. When the mood took you, you'd race the hell out of your exercise wheel. When it didn't, you'd rag the hell out of your cardboard tubes and toys.

The nieces adored you and it would be the high point of their day to go up and play with little Nicky.

Sadly eventually you started to slow down. You got sick. For a while you perked up but it became obvious today that you were very unwell so we had to take you to the doctor. Our worst fears were realised and we had to take the most painful decision on your behalf. How I wish I could shed a tear.

I hope you enjoyed our company as much as we enjoyed yours.

Good night sweet Nickel. Rest in peace.