CAT lovers took part in a sponsored walk at the weekend in aid of a cats charity.

The walkers set off from the Millennium Bridge, inYork, to raise the money for a new isolation unit which York Cats Protection League will use to quarantine sick moggies at its York Shelter at Huntington.

Shelter manager James Hodgkinson said: "The new isolation unit will prove invaluable in helping us to quarantine any cats that are ill - making absolutely sure they receive the best possible care while also ensuring they don't infect our other residents."

The shelter, which recently celebrated its second anniversary, has rescued and rehomed hundreds of unwanted cats in the York area.

"Unfortunately, the shelter is always bursting at the seams, and we'd like to urge anyone considering a cat to pop in and see us," said James.

"We'd especially love to hear from those willing to take on an older pet, as these are the unfortunate souls who always get left behind - older cats need love too!"

Updated: 11:29 Monday, May 19, 2003