An animal sanctuary faces closure because it is being overwhelmed with unwanted cats and dogs and is running out of funds to care for them.

Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary in Wild Country Lane, Barrow Gurney, is full to overflowing and it is feared that unless the situation changes, it could be forced to close.

Founder Pauline Leeson said the credit crunch has affected the charity badly and this is the worst year so far for the number of unwanted animals.

She told the Evening Post: "More animals than ever need our help and are coming to us needing veterinary treatment. Many need neutering because owners say they cannot afford the cost, very few animals are vaccinated, and a high majority need dental work.

"At Holly Hedge, no animal is denied the medical help they need, but we are struggling to secure the future of the sanctuary.

"Not all our animals come from uncaring homes, although we do get a high percentage of abandoned and neglected animals.

"There are people who have no choice other than to part with their pets, and we have shed many a tear with broken-hearted owners."

She added: "Because of the current economic downturn our investments are just not performing, and if this trend continues Holly Hedge may be forced to drastically reduce the numbers of animals we can help.

"The worst scenario would be to close down completely, but we are determined that must never happen as so many animals in need depend upon us."

Holly Hedge has taken in a record number of cats this year, particularly abandoned heavily-pregnant cats and nursing mums with their kittens. The charity has had to stop fundraising for a new kennel block because money is desperately needed for the everyday running of the sanctuary.

The cost of treating and feeding the animals is about £400,000 a year and the sanctuary is running at a weekly loss of £5,000.

Hilary Eddy, 58, of Bedminster Down, first became aware of Holly Hedge in 1992 and has since adopted many cats. She said: "I adopt elderly cats from the sanctuary. I went to visit there the other day and was shocked to find they are in a very desperate state.

"They have been inundated with cats and dogs which they don't turn away and they would never have an animal put to sleep unless it was suffering.

"I take elderly cats and give them a good life while they live out their twilight years. They have food, comfort and the run of the house. And they give me companionship.

"Because I live alone and have difficulty getting out and about, they give me something to get up for in the morning.

"The sanctuary is a really lovely place and the animals get treated exceptionally well until a new home can be found for them.

Evening Post readers can help by sponsoring a kennel or cat pen for £5 a month, help with shop collections by holding a bucket for a couple of hours, or arrange their own fundraising event.

● Holly Hedge has a cabaret night on December 4 at Pill Social Club. Tickets are £10, including buffet. For more tickets, call the sanctuary on 01274 474719.