Best feet forward to help save animal sanctuary from closure- Messenger 21/10/10

A Messenger super sub put his best two feet forward to raise charity cash to help those with four furry feet.

Gareth Parker was one of 50 animal lovers who dragged themselves out of bed on a cold Sunday morning to support the Society for Abandoned Animals.

The Barfoot Bridge charity desperately needed £50,000 to stave off closure.

Thanks to a Messenger campaign and a 5k sponsored walk, which raised around £2,000, the sanctuary has been saved.

Gareth, 39, who lives with teacher wife Gayle on Victoria Road, Sale, was delighted to do his bit to help by taking part in the sponsored walk. He said "It is inspiring to see how many aninmal lovers gave up their Sunday morning for such a great cause. The sanctuary does a fantastic job and has been in Sale for such a long time it was really sad to find out it was threatened with closure."

Sanctuary Manager Bob Gregson, thanked everyone who turned up for the walk. He said "Seeing so many people give up their Sunday brought a tear to my eye. I can't thank everyone enough."

The money raised will benefit the animals at the shelter, such as six-year-old tortoiseshell cat Rose, who has been there since February and is one of its longest stayers.

Bob said 'Rose really is a loving cat and its such a shame she's not found a home yet. Ideally she would be better with someone who has not got children or any other animals. Although she may be slightly challenging at first she has so much to give back and would make a really lovely pet for that special person."

Although the £50,000 target has been reached the sanctuary still needs help, and further donations of cash or goods for future sales are welcome. 

To find out more visit saarescue.co.uk or call 0161 973 5318