Abandoned animals in need of your help

The first major phase of building work is anticipated to start in the second half of this year with preparations starting on site in the next few months.

Funds to improve the current, outdated accommodation, have been secured for the first phase of the building work but the charity will need a lot more help from community fundraisers to see the entire project completed.

The centre dates back to the 1960s and over time its buildings have become very tired and run down. It is desperately in need of improvement and failure to achieve this could force the charity to close its doors for good.

Martin Thacker, honorary branch president, said: “The fantastic support of local people now means that the rebuild project has become a reality. “The fundraising efforts of so many is overwhelming and will ensure a fit-for-purpose centre for animals in Chesterfield. It really is a case of, ‘together we can make a difference.’”

Branch Manager Rachel Gray said: “We are so inspired by the generosity of our supporters who have helped us secure £1.5m toward the project.

“We would encourage anyone who may be interested in supporting us to come down to the centre to meet our team and see the vital animal welfare work we do here and why we are so committed to keeping this centre open for neglected, abandoned and abused animals in our region.”

The project has been largely funded by public donations and gifts in wills and also supported by grant providers such as the Chesterfield General Charitable Fund.

Community events such as an abseil down Chesterfield College and a Skydive Challenge at Hibaldstow Airfield have collectively raised £30,000 toward the project.

For more than 50 years Chesterfield and North Derbyshire area has been helping animals in need and finding them new, permanent, loving homes and over the decades they have been there for thousands of abused, unwanted and abandoned pets.

In 2013 alone the branch re-homed almost 1000 animals.

For more information phone 01246 273358 or make a donation online at www.chesterfield-rspca.org.uk or via post at RSPCA Chesterfield North Derbyshire Branch, 137 Spital Lane, Chesterfield, S41 0HL.