Sheffield-based animal rescue in crisis and could close

A longstanding animal rescue charity is on the verge of closure due to a funding crisis.
South Yorkshire Animal Rescue.South Yorkshire Animal Rescue.
South Yorkshire Animal Rescue.

For nearly 40 years South Yorkshire Animal Rescue has been a haven for thousands of injured animals - including birds, squirrels and hedgehogs - which are nursed back to health and released back into the wild.

READ MORE: Police to step up patrols at Sheffield allotments after spate of damageBut the Walkley-based organisation is running out of money and volunteers warned it will most likely close within the next several months.

Philip Slack in the shop.Philip Slack in the shop.
Philip Slack in the shop.
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The situation is so dire they are not accepting any new animals and some of those in their care will be released back into the wild.

In a lengthy post on Facebook, the charity said: "It looks increasingly likely that South Yorkshire Animal Rescue will have to close for good by the end of this year.

"There are currently only sufficient funds to pay our one full-time and one part-time animal care and general staff until July.

"After this time the charity will only provide a skeleton service with volunteers only to care for the existing long term and permanent animals until the small amount of funds remaining is used up.

Philip Slack in the shop.Philip Slack in the shop.
Philip Slack in the shop.
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However volunteers have vowed to fight for a future and appealed for donations so the centre can keep going for as long as possible.

The post added: "It will not be until the day the key is turned in the door for the last time that defeat will be admitted. While ever the charity remains there is hope.

"An unexpected or miraculous financial solution for the future could be found.

"The final closure date will depend on any funds raised and donations given between now and the end of the year."

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An online fundraising page has been launched to raise £3000 to help secure the short-term future of the centre.

READ MORE: Police chiefs insist Sheffield remains safest large city - despite spate of stabbingsThe charity was in a similar situation in Spring last year but was eventually saved from closure after the public raised about £5000 following an appeal in The Star.

Charity co-ordinator Philip Slack told last year how they need about £30, 000 annually to stay afloat but donations had dropped off in tough economic times.

Donate at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/southyorkshireanimalrescue1