A CHARITY which looks after abandoned pets in the region has thanked generous animal-lovers for their financial donations.

Nearly £500 was raised via text message pledges after we revealed the RSPCA’s Worcester and Mid-Worcestershire branch - the Holdings in Kempsey - needed help to keep operating during the current pandemic.

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Ned Cotton branch centre manager said: “I want to say thank you to everyone from the bottom of our hearts for coming forward and donating money by text.

“I know people are losing loved ones and can’t go to work during this crisis but, as a charity, along with many others, we are struggling at the moment.

“Again thank you for thinking of us and helping with our animal work.

“People can still make donations via our Just Giving page, our Virgin Money Giving page or they can text ‘HOLD’ to 70450 to donate just £5 – alternatively people can make cheques out to RSPCA Worcester and send to The Holdings, Holdings Lane, Kempsey, WR5 3FP.”

Mr Cotton also wanted to thank members of the public who have expressed an interest in fostering animals.

However, due to recent Government advice, animals cannot be sent out to foster homes at the moment, but the centre is still able to accept animals brought in by RSPCA inspectors.

He wants to stress to anyone thinking of rehoming an animal to wait until after the current pandemic ends.

The branch was formed in 1911, and it is run by a board of trustees, which ensures all money donated goes directly for the benefit of the hundreds of animals that come through their doors each year.

Many have been abandoned, abused, neglected or injured.

Some are unwanted or their owners have died and its aim it to rehome animals within the county.