91Èȱ¬

Bosses at an animal welfare sanctuary have said "overwhelming public support" meant the charity had been able to survive a "very bleak" few months.

Woodlands Animal Sanctuary, in the West Lancashire village of Holmeswood, warned it was "on the brink" in August because of falling donations and increasing vet and drug bills.

But a spokesperson said backing from the local community, other charities and businesses now meant it was in a much stronger financial position.

The charity, which was founded in 2005, rescues and rehomes vulnerable and neglected animals from across Lancashire and Merseyside.

Trustee and volunteer Vickie Blackburn said: "Woodlands, and all of our rescues, are forever indebted to the generosity and kindness that helped keep us going and to survive a very bleak situation."

The charity is also opening a new community hub at the Concourse shopping centre in Skelmersdale.

As well as having a shop, the hub will be used for education and community engagement.

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