Show support for West Chiltington animal sanctuary at fun open days

But I think she’d be very proud and touched by all the work that continues apace here. The new (well - secondhand) tractor has arrived at last, after Alan’s appeal for funds. This had a brilliant response, including one particularly generous anonymous donor, so big thanks all round.

Misty the cat likes the tractor, too!

The new Orchard Cattery is almost finished and will officially open on Saturday August 16.

The lucky cats that move in here will have luxury sleeping quarters and their own private runs set amongst the trees and shrubs.

The brilliant CostofaCoffee girls have raised the money, designed and overseen it all, and even laid some of the slabs for the walkways themselves! So, respect!

There’s a quiet sitting space with a bench dedicated to Alex (there was talk of a birdbath here too, but that might be tempting fate!) The space will be wheelchair–friendly as well, lovely for all to sit or wander in.

Shetlands Hogan and Hamish have gone off to a new forever home and are having a wonderful time. It’s always a joy when animals find a place to settle and live out their lives.

And it’s amazing how much an animal’s personality will emerge and flourish with one-to-one care and love. Our Welsh pony George is next in line. He’s now in livery and having some schooling – so let’s hope for more good news soon.

We still long to see Pinky and Perky, two friendly pigs, find someone to love them. They arrived with us in their mother’s tummy over 3 years ago. Now they really need more space than we can offer, and would so much appreciate a home with people who understand pigs and their needs, and give them the attention they crave.

We’re always very grateful for any help offered, and we owe an extra thank you to the Brownies after their 100th birthday celebration at the end of June.

The Sanctuary invited the girls to spend a part of the day making cat toys and colourful signs for our Open Days on Saturday August 2 and Sunday August 3.

Not only did they make some gorgeous things, they also brought in a wonderful array of food and treats for all our animals. The fridges here were bursting with fruit and veg for a week! So thanks again to all!

The Open Days are this weekend, as I say – so put a note in the diary for a visit! We are open on both Saturday and Sunday, from 11 till 4pm. There’ll be Children’s Races, the popular Shetland Races, Face Painting, a Magician, delicious Food and various stalls, and of course all the animals to visit.

The Bastedo Band will be singing on Saturday and Virginia McKenna will be looking in and chatting to people.

On Sunday there’s a super Folk Band, a Fabulous Palmist (NO bad news!) And, of course, The Blessing of the Animals with readings by Christopher Timothy – TV’s best ever vet – and our marvellous vicar Stephen.

So do come and support your local sanctuary, We’d love to see you!