AN animal adoption centre has appealed for help after it took in a record number of homeless and unwanted pets last year. The Blue Cross centre in Kimpton accepted almost 600 animals in 2008, including dogs, cats and rabbits. So far, homes have been found

AN animal adoption centre has appealed for help after it took in a record number of homeless and unwanted pets last year.

The Blue Cross centre in Kimpton accepted almost 600 animals in 2008, including dogs, cats and rabbits.

So far, homes have been found for more than 500 of these pets.

But with the economic downturn showing no sign of abating, workers at the centre believe it may end up accepting even more animals this year.

In view of this, staff are appealing to animal lovers to show their support where possible by getting involved with fundraising, making donations or volunteering at the centre.

Centre manager Lynda Campbell said: "We helped more homeless and unwanted pets than ever last year, but we couldn't have done it without the help of the public.

"We are so grateful for all the local support we receive and hope animal lovers will keep helping us as the credit crunch continues to bite.

"We aim to help even more animals in the difficult times ahead - all the pets staying with us really deserve a second chance in life."

If you are interested in volunteering, fundraising, making a donation or re-homing an animal, call the centre on 01438 832232.