IT'S OPEN! GREAT NEW RSPCA CHARITY SHOP

With lovely weather, an enthusiastic crowd of well-wishers to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress of Chelmsford, the brand new RSPCA shop in Moulsham Street was opened yesterday. Sparkling wine and cake were offered to all who attended this happy ceremony.

The National RSPCA deals with welfare of animals including those involved in cruelty and neglect. Numerous branches were formed to deal with the stray and unwanted animals in their area. Each branch is run by a team of Trustees who have financial and legal responsibilities for the branch affairs. Because of this every RSPCA branch is autonomous, depending upon what their Trustees have managed to provide for their areas.

The Mid Essex branch that serves the Chelmsford area includes a veterinary clinic which was set up from a legacy. On site is a veterinary surgeon who, alongside a manager and part time receptionists, carries out splendid work. Open five days a week, they see stray and unwanted animals brought in from the Inspectorate and provide boarding and treatment until they animals are re-homed. They need more help from animal-lovers who could spare time to help the Mid-Essex Branch by perhaps becoming a Trustee, or helping in the new shop (the only animal charity shop in Chelmsford) and in other ways. Do check out their website www.rspca-midessex.org.uk or phone 01245 263001 for further information.
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ANIMALS GALORE - A LOOK AT WHAT THE RSPCA IS UP TO!

It’s a universal truth that this country is a nation of animal lovers. Wikipedia tells us that at the last count, there were around 7 million cats and the same number of dogs living in around 75% of homes in England.

Alongside the above, many people own gerbils, tortoises, rabbits and even the odd slithery snake, oh – and parrots are popular, too. Remarkably, the organisation that is so vital with regard to animals is, of course, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the term ‘Rescue’ seems to pop up when families consider bringing a pet into their home.

Our brand new baby cat, Pixie, came to us as a rescue cat – one with no home – but we knew she had been looked after by a foster family. The RSPCA need foster families as well as permanent homes for some of the animals that are brought into their centres. I’m now particularly interested in the Mid Essex RSPCA - they are a lovely bunch, especially their vet, manager and voluntary helpers. Look out for my article in the Chelmsford Weekly News this week announcing the opening of a brand new RSPCA charity shop at 178 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford – our county town. Chelmsford’s Mayor, Councillor Allan Arnot will be there on Saturday 24 July at 11.00am to cut the ribbon.

The shop will have special offers to celebrate the opening. The charity is also holding a Pet Picture Competition to celebrate 'Our Pets' and award prizes for a range of categories. Opening hours after 24th July: Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4pm, Friday and Saturday 9.30am to 4.30pm. For further information, call 01245 263001 or visit www.rspca-midessex.org.uk