A CAT rescue centre in North Yorkshire has started a winter food appeal after going through one of its toughest years yet.

Jackie Bower, who runs Black Cat Rescue Centre from her home in Back Lane, North Duffield, near Selby, said she had been running to capacity all year because very high numbers of cats had been abandoned and could not be cared for elsewhere.

In July the shelter suffered a setback as many of the cats caught a virus, wiith 15 becoming seriously ill and six dying.

Despite a very upsetting three weeks for the shelter, Mrs Bower said the centre had since returned to strength.

She has now appealed to people to donate food to keep it going for the first few months of the year.

Mrs Bower said: “The response from people in York was overwhelming last time. We always run an appeal for food over the festive period, as January and February are a bit of a waste of time as far as fundraising is concerned, so we need to raise enough food and funds to last us through until at least March.

“It’s been a very difficult and at times heartbreaking, year.

“If it wasn’t for the kindness and exceptional generosity of my supporters I would never have made it through the year.

Following the virus I was so low that I seriously considered giving it all up, but the cats won’t let me. There are far too many out there that need my help.

“I only take cats that have been turned away from other rescues and while they are with me they are treated as my own and loved to bits.”

People who would like to donate good quality tinned food or sachets and cat biscuits can leave food at the shelter or phone Mrs Bower on 01757 289435.

There are also drop-off points in Selby for those who don’t drive – Bon Marche in Gowthorpe, Dam Vets in Leeds Road and Jollye’s Pet Superstore.