A north-east animal sanctuary which cares for hundreds of creatures is in desperate need of funds as, it says, donations have been hit by Brexit.
Willows Animal Sanctuary at New Pitsligo is launching a winter feed fundraiser to help care for its residents through the colder months.
Bosses at the centre say they are looking after more vulnerable animals than ever before but are facing a slump in cash donations.
Willows’ Vicky McDonald said: “We have taken in more elderly and abused animals than ever this year and charities like us are being inundated with requests to help out with unwanted animals.
“We’re the largest equine, farm and domestic animal sanctuary in Scotland and will try to help any animal in distress.”
She added: “We are totally dependent on donations, legacies and grants from benevolent organisations to keep the sanctuary running.
“We have noticed a drop in donations since Brexit happened and we need help to boost our fundraising.”
The centre is currently caring for more than 450 animals, including more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys as well as around 60 cats and dogs.
The team also looks after some reptiles as well as more than 200 farm animals and birds.
In an effort to fund the winter food bill the team is announcing plans to host a fundraiser at the sanctuary on Saturday, September 9.
The event will run from 11am until 4pm and will include a bouncy castle, magician, stalls, raffles and other entertainment.
Earlier this year the team organised an online auction to encourage donations.
Items up for sale included a signed Tony Singh cookbook, family tickets for a dolphin-spotting trip and a family trip to Dunnottar Castle.
And last year the wife of legendary rock vocalist Paul Rodgers – who is the animal sanctuary’s most famous patron – invited fans of her husband’s career with Free, Bad Company and, latterly, Queen to donate to the sanctuary to mark the rocker’s 67th birthday.
