FERNE Animal Sanctuary in Wambrook has nearly reached its goal to raise £500,000 towards bringing the much-loved animal re-homing centre up to date.

The sanctuary kicked off its £1m ‘New Digs for Dogs’ project for 2014/15 back in March, to build a new enhanced kennel block, improved grooming and veterinary care room, information hub, social unit, offices, reception and a purpose-built re-homing centre at the site.

Out of the £1m needed for the project, £500,000 is coming from the charity’s reserves, saved for this project, but the remaining £500,000 is being sought through fundraising activities.

And Ferne is nearly there – an incredible £457,311,97 has been raised so far, with the final push now underway.

Patricia Gardner-Harper, acting director at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: “It’s hard to believe that through the generosity of so many people, we are already at the final hurdle.

“We are so close now but still need to raise £42,688.03.

“It would be absolutely fantastic if we could achieve this figure by Christmas.

“Everyone at Ferne knew we had a lot of supporters — but none of us can believe that so much money has been raised in such a short time – it's staggering!

“The new building is slowly becoming operational. The team at Acheson Construction have done a great job and are holding our hands while the staff and animals settle in.

“The official Grand Opening will be announced in the New Year when we hope as many supporters as possible will come along to view this incredibly modern facility and join us in celebrating such a great achievement.

“I can’t really find the words to say a big enough ‘thank-you’ to everyone who has contributed in so many different ways.

Please continue to help us and the animals – we’re nearly there!”

Fundraising packs for the appeal, details of how to donate and more information about all their events can be obtained by calling 01460- 65214 or by visiting ferneanimalsanctuary.org