AN ANIMAL charity is calling on wildlife lovers to get involved with a campaign to raise £100,000 to update facilities for pets in need.

Stubbington Ark RSPCA animal shelter in Ranvilles Lane has launched its 2020 fundraiser asking 1,000 people to pledge that they will raise money for the centre.

The idea behind 1,000 Animal Lovers is that 1,000 people will help to raise £100 each in any way they want before September 1.

This will raise enough money to renovate the ageing facilities animals live in.

Stubbington Ark RSPCA animal shelter has launched a fundraising campaign called 1,000 Animal Lovers. This is the mixing shed which will hopefully be replaced | Other 3rd Party

placeholder image — Stubbington Ark RSPCA animal shelter has launched a fundraising campaign called 1,000 Animal Lovers. This is the mixing shed which will hopefully be replaced | Other 3rd Party

The Stubbington Ark was built in 1987 and has begun to show its age, so some big changes and upgrades are being planned by staff and volunteers working with the animals.

Improvements could include replacing the rabbit bonding shed, upgrading the dog kennels, having larger units and pens for small animals and putting a one-way system for dog walking.

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Rachel Hall, business and income generation manager, said: ‘The Stubbington Ark is an independent animal rehoming charity and we rely solely on the generosity of the public for donations.

Stubbington Ark RSPCA animal shelter has launched a fundraising campaign called 1,000 Animal Lovers. Pictured: Turbo, a pig who has been reserved for a new home | Other 3rd Party

‘We are always humbled by how many people want to help, so to embark on such a fantastic fundraising scheme on this level, that so many people can get involved in is great.

‘This much needed money will help us to achieve our goal of revamping our beloved shelter. The Ark is over 30 years old and some buildings are still their original structure so it’s in much need of an overhaul.’

There are many ways in which fundraisers can drum up support for their £100 pledge, including putting on cake sales, non-uniform days and sponsored walks, and supporters can get as creative as they would like.

Rachel added: ‘Thank you to all those who have signed up and we look forward to hearing of your weird and wacky ideas for this fundraiser.’

Stubbington Ark RSPCA animal shelter has launched a fundraising campaign called 1,000 Animal Lovers. Pictured: Dave and Pete, two guinea pigs looking for a home | Other 3rd Party

If you would like to get involved, visit the shelter for a sponsorship form or email [email protected]

The animal rescue centre will also be holding its summer fete on June 20 from 11am to 4pm, with bookings for stalls now available at £25 on a first come, first served basis.