THE founder of a cat rescue centre near Selby said 2017 was one of the toughest years yet for the shelter.

Jackie Bower, who runs Black Cat Rescue from her home in North Duffield, said five cats that she was caring for last year had to be put down due to various illnesses.

The 64 year-old also had to cope with the death of three of her own cats.

Jackie, who founded the centre in 2001 and runs it by herself, relies entirely on donations of food and cash and also holds regular coffee mornings in Selby and one-off fundraisers to keep the centre going.

Jackie said: "We’ve had an awful year and have lost eight cats in total since May. It’s been one of the toughest years we’ve ever had and every year gets harder.

"Over the year we have probably helped in the region of 100 cats and this is expensive. My vet bills alone were over £5,000 and my litter costs me £124 every two weeks. I also have to pay Selby council £450 for commercial bins to take away the dirty litter.

"If it wasn't for the fact we get so much food donated when we run an appeal I would have to buy it myself, then we wouldn't be able to cope financially so the shelter would have to close."

Last month, Jackie launched Black Cat’s annual Christmas Food Appeal, which proved a success.

She said: "I have had rather a lot of sachets and a few tins of food donated. I also received several donations either by cheque or paid directly on to my vets account. I would like to thank everyone who responded to the appeal in any way.

The centre's annual Christmas Fayre on December 16 at the Hawdon Institute in Selby helped raise £500 for the shelter.

To make a food or cash donation to Black Cat Rescue, phone Jackie on 07917 852631. Alternatively, leave food outside the centre in Back Lane, North Duffield. To see the cats phone Jackie to make an appointment.