Help cattery survive

The future of the RSPCA cattery is in doubt according to branch chairman Mary Bristow.

The RSPCA Sussex East and Hastings runs Bluebell Ridge in St Leonards which is fighting for its future despite support from the public and faces the threat of closure if it cannot raise all the money it needs.

A desperate appeal for donations at the end of the year achieved some success but this week Mary commented: "We are up against it financially. We need to thank the public who have donated because they have been brilliant in supporting us but have to say while we are not shutting at this moment we are in financial trouble and struggling to keep going.

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"People still don't realise we are self-financed...but if you wish your local RSPCA branch to survive, please support it '“ come to our many events and make donations.

"The crisis point was reached before Christmas. We have survived but we do need continued support if we are to maintain our work."

The branch is also appealing for volunteers who will play an important part in keeping the cattery open for business.

They are needed to organise or help with fund raising, coffee mornings, fairs, boot sales, administration, charity shop in Western Road, and gardening at the cattery.

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Anyone who in interested can call Julie on 01424 752121 between 11-3pm except Thursdays.

Recent donations to the cattery included a 1,000 boost from a gymnastic group, Acromax, which put on a christmas show to rase funds.

However the cattery only has enough money to last through until April.

Manager Julie Watson commented: "Bluebell ridge has been given a little extra time thanks to the kindness of supporters and following the recent appeal the centre now has funds until April 2010 but is still in desperate need of more to be able to stay open beyond this time. Please continue to support us."

For more details visit www.bluebellridge.org.uk, or call 01424 752121.

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