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Paw-some gesture from demolition firm to needy animal shelter

A FAMILY-RUN demolition company has stepped in to help some furry friends, after being touched by their plight amid the cost of living crisis.

Hucknall-based Total Reclaims Demolition has brought some much-needed joy to the cats, dogs, gerbils, hamsters and rabbits of the RSPCA Animal Centre in Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, after donating some much-needed supplies.

Answering a cry for help from centre manager Ella Carpenter, the firm has kindly supplied the shelter with bedding, towels and treats to help over the festive season.

Stephen Fisher, Total Reclaims’ business development manager, a former volunteer at the centre, has three Labradors of his own and knows just how expensive looking after dogs can be.

So when he saw a recent article in a local newspaper, he contacted the centre to identify its needs.

Stephen said: “We have a good relationship with the shelter - we demolished their old centre and I used to volunteer there, while I have friends who still volunteer there.

“I contacted Ella and they were looking for bedding.

“We have bought 15m of specialist vet bedding, which is hypoallergenic and washable, as well as a bundle of towels, and boxes of treats.”

He added: “We are mindful of the plight of some of the dogs down there - it’s heart-wrenching.

“We would urge any other small businesses to get involved and contact the centre, if possible, to identify their needs.”

Melvyn Cross, managing director of Total Reclaims’, which has 25 experience in transforming the Nottinghamshire skyline, as well as projects nationwide, gave his full support to the gesture.

He said: “Rising fuel bills and the recent cold snap have deepened the issue and it goes without saying that the RSPCA is such a worthy cause, and anything we can do, helps.

“I’d urge everyone to think how they might be able to help others that are in need, especially at this time of the year”.

The animal shelter had appealed for support, with the cost of living crisis sparking a rise in people giving up their pets, coupled with the centre’s own running costs increasing, leading to concerns for how the local facility can continue to meet the animals’ needs.

A grateful Ella said: “The donation brings much-needed supplies and is most welcome, however, we are still in need of further support and would welcome the donation of old towels and vet bedding

“Our staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that all the animals in our care receive the warmth, comfort and support they deserve”.

Anyone wishing to donate can contact the centre by calling 0115 855 0222.