THE Society for Abandoned Animals (also known as the Peggy Henderson Animal Sanctuary) on the Sale/Stretford border is appealing for donations to help it weather a cash crisis.

Over the last two-and-a-half years the sanctuary has been repeatedly targeted by thieves and vandals, including the theft of a puppy. It has had no choice but to spend significant sums on security measures to protect the animals, and is now struggling to meet daily running costs.

Manager Helena Brailsford explains:“In the last 12 months we have had to spend over £48,000 on security, including the cost of a security guard. That money should have been used to kick-start a fundraising campaign to build new kennels, but that is now a long way off. We are struggling to cover basic running costs at the moment and are appealing for help to get back on our feet and avoid having to reduce or suspend services”.

The sanctuary takes in and rehomes unwanted cats, dogs and rabbits, and is the only rehoming centre in the borough of Trafford. In 2004 they found loving new homes for 68 dogs, 93 rabbits and 423 cats. If cash cannot be raised quickly, they will have to seriously consider a stop on admission of new animals until the situation improves.

If you would like to help, you can contact the sanctuary on 0161 973 5318 or send donations, payable to “SAA” to: Society for Abandoned Animals, Mosley Acre Farm, Barfoot Bridge, Manchester M32 9UP.