Stars including actor Stephen Fry and television presenter Michaela Strachan have backed a campaign to help save a north-east animal sanctuary.
Willows at New Pitsligo is the largest of its kind in Scotland and cares for more than 450 animals who have been rescued from slaughter or abuse.
It also runs a therapy programme for people with mental health difficulties, which is regarded by social workers, psychiatrists and employment officers as a suitable alternative to day or hospital care.
But the charity has said the impact of coronavirus has been “devastating”, with the closure of its sanctuary and cafe to the public resulting in its regular income being cut in half.
Bosses have raised fears that, unless it can secure urgent funds, it may have to shut permanently and find new homes for its 100 horses, ponies and donkeys, 65 cats, dogs and reptiles, and 200-plus farm animals and birds.
An online auction will take place later this month to help raise money and keep the organisation afloat.
Among the lots is a signed book by Springwatch and The Really Wild Show presenter Michaela Strachan.
She said: “It’s a tough time for any animal sanctuary at the moment so an online auction is a great idea for keeping funds coming in.
“I hope this one raises lots of money and my very small contribution of a signed book helps.”
Stephen Fry has also donated copies of his books Mythos and Heroes and offered to include a custom dedication inside for the winners.
The items will go under the virtual hammer later this month.
In a message online, the auction organisers said: “Losing Willows would be a tremendous loss to the community and, as long-term Willows supporters, we’d never forgive ourselves if we didn’t fight to keep the charity going.”
For more information, visit facebook.com/helpsavewillows.
