ANIMAL lovers have been urged to help a York RSPCA centre fund its repairs following the floods.

More than 140 animals had to be evacuated from the Landing Lane site during the flooding, with some going to Leeds and other areas.

Although many of the animals have now been returned to York, the exercise areas were so waterlogged and badly damaged with fallen trees, the dogs at the site cannot be left unattended.

Angela Hunter said staff from the centre had been walking dogs throughout the day to ensure they remain in good health, but this took them away from their every day duties.

She said: "The water actually covered up the fencing which is seven feet high. It's looking alright now but still can't use it as it's too boggy. There was quite a lot of debris but people have been in and taken a lot of it away.

"Unfortunately, because there wasn't any damage to the buildings, we weren't covered by the insurance. There were sandbags at the front door but no damage to a single brick. That means we need money as it's going to cost £4,000 to £5,000 to pay for it as the compounds are huge."

But Angela said it had not all been bad news for the centre since the flooding: "Most of the animals are back now, but Askham Bryan have kept 14 birds and two hamsters. Three cats and dogs went to the RSPCA in Leeds and have been rehomed, and our longest stay dog Tallulah also got rehomed here in York.

"Staff are having to walk the dogs all day every day, rain or shine, so everything is stacking up. Trained dog walkers are all coming in as much as they can, but we need to sort this sooner rather than later."

The centre has launched an online appeal to help raise the money needed to clear up the exercise compounds, with any extra money going towards extra play equipment for the dogs.

To find out more or donate to the fund, go to rspca-yorkhome.org.uk