A Bristol-based charity which helps, heals and homes thousands of vulnerable animals every year has received a welcome cash gift from the Westerleigh Group.

The Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) has been caring for the city’s pets and wildlife since 1887.

Westerleigh Group, the UK’s largest independent owner and operator of crematoria and cemeteries, with 35 sites nationwide and headquarters near Bristol, has donated more than £3,000 to the charity, from money raised through its metal recycling scheme. 

With the consent of families, metals recovered during cremation are recycled and any money raised is used to support charities and other worthy causes in the communities surrounding each of Westerleigh’s sites. 

Bristol A.R.C., which is affiliated with the RSPCA, relies entirely on local support to fund its work in caring for a huge number of furry, feathered and four-legged friends.

Katie Love, the charity’s Fundraising and Communications Manager, said: “We’d like to thank Westerleigh Group very much for sharing such kindness and generosity with Bristol’s vulnerable animals.

“This amount of money could cover the costs of caring for seven dogs for three whole months, which includes giving them all a full tummy, warm clean, cosy beds, plenty of toys and bespoke, individually-tailored training, plus routine health checks and treatments like vaccinations, worming and routine dentistry.

“It can often be challenging raising the vital funds required to meet our needs, so we’d like to thank Westerleigh Group for making all the difference to our work.”

Alex Nikitina, Westerleigh’s Marketing and Design Manager, nominated Bristol A.R.C. to receive a donation from the metal recycling scheme this year.

Alex, who adopted two cats herself, said: “I have held annual birthday fundraisers for this charity for the past couple of years.

“The team there does an amazing job caring for all sorts of animals and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to give them a donation which will make a positive difference to their work.

“Westerleigh Group is proud to be able to support many different charities and organisations through the recycling scheme, as part of our commitment to build strong relationships with the communities around our sites.”