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Russell WBHO and Blue Ocean dig deep to help animal charity

Staff from Russell WBHO and preferred supplier Blue Ocean have joined forces to help a Manchester-based animal charity improve its facilities.

The team spent a day helping out at the Society for Abandoned Animals (SAA), which cares for, and rehomes cats and rabbits.

After assembling wheelbarrows, the volunteers constructed a new shelter in a field hired out by the charity to raise funds. The enclosed space is available for dogs that can’t be left off the lead on public walks to exercise or be trained in a safe environment.

The next task saw the team roll up their sleeves to spruce up the SAA’s animal memorial garden, clearing the area of weeds and brambles. Set up in honour of the charity’s founder Peggy Henderson, the garden displays personal plaques of much-loved pets so their owners can pay tribute. The area is located next to a cat sanctuary designed with comfy chairs, throws and pillows providing a peaceful and comfortable space for the animals.

John Millward, construction director at Russell WBHO said: “Armed with some very useful wheelbarrows, Blue Ocean’s joinery expertise and lots of enthusiasm, we had a very productive day at the SAA!

“The new shelter is a big bonus for the charity, helping to attract more dog walkers to use the secure space and raise vital funds. We’re really grateful to Christopher Boardman and Chris Killip from Blue Ocean who donated their time, and the materials needed for the structure were kindly donated by Joseph Parr.

“The day was also a great opportunity to see the work of the charity firsthand. Our team had the chance to visit the rehabilitation area for injured and sick animals and to enjoy some down time socialising with the feral cats roaming around the site.”

Providing further support, Russell WBHO staff donated food and accessories for the animals, and the company has sponsored a pen which houses cats and rabbits ready for adoption. Currently, the space is home to Roberto who arrived at the charity as a stray with a broken leg and viral disease. He has since made a full recovery and is now waiting for his ‘furever’ home!”

Debbie Dickerson, sanctuary manager at SAA said: “We’re thrilled with the donations and assistance and I want to pass on my thanks and gratitude to Russell WBHO and Blue Ocean on behalf of all of us here at the Sanctuary. You did a great job with the shelter! It will help us advertise both the fields out now and really put them both to good use. Thanks again for your donations and please don’t hesitate to pop in at any time.”

A Just Giving Page has also been set up inviting staff to donate to the SAA, which relies entirely on donations to cover its running costs.

Our Russell WBHO sponsored pen for Roberto the cat
The completed shelter in the dog field.  The Russell WBHO crew is flanked by Christopher Boardman (far left) and Chris Killip (far right) from Blue Ocean.