A CHARITY for retired greyhounds is appealing for sponsors to help dogs awaiting forever homes to get through the coronavirus crisis.

The Stourbridge branch of the Hall Green Greyhound Trust, based at Broadmarsh Kennels at Wassell Grove Lane, Hagley, needs to raise around £4,000 a month to keep running and give its rescued hounds a chance of a future.

However - the coronavirus crisis has hit the charity hard.

Branch chairperson Tracey Parbery said: "With COVID-19 hitting everyone it has also hit charities and we alone have had to cancel all our fundraising event.

"We are currently still walking the greyhounds through the kindness of our volunteers whilst following the COVID-19 government guidelines as they have to get a walk but it is challenging times for them too."

"Our branch does amazing work with nearby organisations such as Safe Harbour Assisted Living where some of the residents visit the greyhounds, we visit local care homes and schools through our Pets as Therapy programme as well as supporting those who cannot have a dog now, but who love to come up and give them a fuss.

"We also help with some DofE programmes as well as being a family branch who assists those who need support through dog walking.

"Obviously these activities for the time being have had to be put on hold which impacts on their lives as much as the hounds."

The charity is hoping animal lovers may be able to help it to going through this difficult period by sponsoring the kennel or sponsoring a retired greyhound (from £3 a month) or by making a one off donation online at www.greyhoundtrusthallgreen.org.uk/donate-online/.

The charity also has a base in Lichfield and between the two sites it has around 40 ex-racing greyhounds awaiting forever homes.