Exciting Mud Run kicks off summer events at the ABC Animal Sanctuary

The fields have dried up well and several projects for this year are under way. As always our aim is to give the animals the best life we can. And sometimes that makes our lives better too.

The old top cattery has had a complete face-lift. The roof used to leak, it was dark and damp with tiny runs, not very nice for cat or human. Volunteers with many skills have made a wonderful difference – no more creeping along in the wet with a torch – thanks to new elecs and a covered walkway.

And special thanks to Jill and John at Buckingham Cattery, Shoreham, for a considerable amount of woodwork and gates in excellent condition. Now the cats all have their own warm raised boudoir and private garden. A wonderful improvement. I’m considering moving in!

So, next is the bird enclosure. New landscaping and a bigger pond are on the list. After that, the pigs’ accommodation is in line for a make-over. It never ends, does it!

The CostofaCoffee girls are busy raising funds. The Coffee Pop In at Storrington last month was a great success – with lots of takers for the coffee, chat and yummy cakes. A bric-a-brac stall did well (I bought a biker Teddy for a chum!) and Dave the ABC Donkey was there. I’m sorry to say he is now too grand to give me his autograph!

If you don’t know about Dave yet, he has his own Facebook page – listed as Dave Equss Assinus https://www.facebook.com/groups/763125003803052/?pnref=lhc

It’s worth a look!

Talking of donkeys, Chocolate has had to be put on pills to subdue the boys’ ardour. Apparently she’s become irresistible to them. Life’s never dull at ABC!

The famous Mud Run on May 10th was another exciting day. Sadly I wasn’t free, but as you see, a good time was had by all! I hear the Arun vets figured quite largely. Spot the muddiest.

As ever we really appreciate these fundraisers and all the work entailed and, of course, all the sponsors who escaped getting filthy and soaked – like me!

Upcoming events:

ABC Open Days 6th and 7th June - All our usual attractions – lots of stalls, food, drinks, music, Jack Sparrow and Star Wars, The Bastedo Band, Gary Clamp and his band, a fab palmist, Shetland races, and much more, with a Saturday visit from Virginia McKenna. Then on Sunday, readings from celebrity guests Liza Goddard, and Chris Timothy (subject to availability as always) followed by the Blessing of the Animals with Rev Stephen Farrell, our brilliant vicar. See you all there!

Golden Cross White Party Sat 21st of June - Our great new sponsor Alex Osborn is opening his Sussex equestrian centre for a night of music, dancing and cabaret style entertainment with all moneys coming to ABC. For info www.goldencrossec.com or phone 07905 286165

CCC Summer Quiz - 18th July, Storrington Village Hall 7 - 7:30pm £10 ticket price to include buffet, Pimms and quiz.

Lastly - All you brilliant knitters out there, who’d like to try and create a donkey? Or a goat? Or a cat? They sell really well for us! We’d love to hear from you. Patterns and assistance available on request. Our website:- www.abcanimalsanctuary.co.uk