THE RSPCA is launching an emergency appeal to keep its rescue teams out on the frontline in Cheshire saving animals through the coronavirus crisis.

Animal rescuers at the charity have been designated key workers by Government, but vital funding is needed to keep them out on the road, continuing to rescue animals from the worst cruelty and neglect.

Although RSPCA centres have closed to the public, including Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich, the charity continues to provide vital care to thousands of animals across England and Wales.

Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich is caring for 27 cats and dozens of wild animals, and is expecting even more to come into its care in the coming weeks as its rescue teams bring in more animals in need.

Alongside this, the charity is facing a huge financial strain as it is already seeing the damaging effect of this crisis on its fundraising income, while the costs of saving, treating and caring for animals continue.

The teams are continuing an emergency-only service through the lockdown period.

Dermot Murphy, Head of the RSPCA Rescue Teams, said: “This is a time of national crisis, and many of us are anxious about the future and our loved ones.

“This crisis has touched all areas of life and the RSPCA is no different. As we all face the biggest challenge of a generation, the RSPCA must continue to be on the frontline, rescuing and caring for the animals who need us most.

“Our rescuers, vets and nurses have been designated key workers by the Government which means we can carry on saving animals from cruelty and neglect and we rely entirely on generous public donations to deliver our vital services.

“We are facing immense challenges and huge pressures on strained resources, but our hugely dedicated teams are out there dealing with emergencies and our centres continue to deliver vital care to thousands of animals, with more expected in the coming weeks.

“We know that this is a difficult time for everyone, but we must still be there for the animals who are suffering and are appealing for animal lovers to give whatever they can to help us.”

Please donate whatever you can spare at rspca.org.uk/covid

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A fox cub being hand-reared at Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre