THE festive cheer has well and truly been wiped out at Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary which has been taking abandoned animals on an almost daily basis since Christmas.

Around 20 cats and 15 puppies, including these six cute bundles of fur pictured, have been left at the gates of the sanctuary.

Many of the abandoned animals were Christmas presents.

Mrs Dorothy Walsh, Bleakholt committee member said: "The sanctuary is full.

"The message just isn't getting through to irresponsible parents who, despite the warning, still go out and buy their children a pet for Christmas."

She said there was a waiting list for pet owners trying to get their animals into the sanctuary.

"I just can't understand it. Parents would not abandon their children like this but they are quite happy to get rid of their animals," added Mrs Walsh.

Anyone who can offer any pet a loving home should ring Bleakholt on 01706 822577.

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