Freshfields Animal Rescue celebrates 40 years of love

It may have been raining but there were warm smiles at Freshfields Animal Rescue Centre, as the charity celebrated its 40th anniversary on Tuesday 22nd January 2019.

The charity has been providing a rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming centre for abused, abandoned and unwanted animals since 1979.

The afternoon tea was attended by the Mayor of Sefton Cllr Dave Robinson, who said: “Today is about recognising the very special part that Freshfields plays in the life of our local community. Over the past 40 years, the local community has come to depend on Freshfields as a vital resource, to which they can bring animals in desperate need, and know that they will be treated with compassion, dedication and excellent medical care”.

The Mayor unveiled a plaque revealing the number of animals that Freshfields have cared for in the last 40 years. We’re thrilled to announce that since 1979 we’ve helped: 89,734 animals! Helen Stanbury, Director of Freshfields, said: “Any charity like Freshfields can only carry out its vital work thanks to the people that come together in support of it. Those people support us in an endless variety of ways and they come to us from so many different walks of life. Donors, sponsors, volunteers, adopters, staff; there are just too many absolutely vital roles to list them all. Today is a chance to say thank you to you all.”

Local Artist Jay Wheeler adopted his dog Fudge from Freshfields 2 years ago, and spoke movingly about how she has transformed his life. Jay said: “I was diagnosed with PTSD and depression since leaving the army after serving for 15 years in Iraq and Afghanistan. When I came back my life took a downward spiral. My art therapy helped me a lot, but I still felt like I didn’t have a main purpose in life. Then I saw Fudge, and just knew that I had to adopt her. We saved each other, and I can’t imagine my life without her now!”

2019 is going to be an exciting year for Jay and Fudge as they will be acting as Community Ambassadors for Freshfields, raising awareness of the healing power of animals and the love that Fudge and Freshfields have brought into his life.

Helen said: “We’d love to hear from you if you are 40 this year! Why not link up with us to celebrate, by taking part in our Sponsored Abseil Challenge or anything else you can think of?

Please check out our Facebook page Freshfields Animal Rescue or contact our Fundraising Manager Emma Jensen at emma@freshfields.org.uk