Every cuppa counts for Britain’s needy pets

Easter might be over, but there's a purrfect excuse for indulging in sweet treats just around the corner.  Following the success of last year's national Tea Party, The Blue Cross pet charity is encouraging animal lovers across the UK to slurp up a challenge for Britain's needy pets. 

The charity is now calling on tea drinkers in Britain to host a Blue Cross Tea Party on Friday 16 May or on a date that suits.  Proceeds from each party will go towards supporting the charity's work caring for the sick and homeless animals at its 11 adoption centres and four animal hospitals around the country. Those wishing to take part should simply invite friends, family, neighbours or colleagues around for tea, whether it's at home, work, school or the local town hall and ask guests to make a donation to The Blue Cross. 

Tracey Chittock, senior events officer at The Blue Cross, said: Your Blue Cross Tea Party can be as big or as small as you like every party will contribute towards raising vital funds for the animals in our care.  Just £9 a week will help to keep a dog's kennel warm whilst it waits to be rehomed at the adoption centre.So why not sign up and we'll provide you with plenty of ideas for your own party!

This event provides a perfect excuse to get together with friends for a good cause over a warm brew and a slice of cake. Once registered, participants will receive a fundraising pack including lots of useful information, including posters, invites and fundraising tips to help make their party an event to remember.

This year, The Blue Cross is also on the look out for the ultimate tea accompaniment and everyone taking part is invited to enter its Tea Time Treat competition*.  Participants should submit an original recipe for a mouth-watering treat, the more creative the better.  Whether it's a recipe for a Blue Cross bun, a gorgeous gateau or a scrumptious scone - all could be in with a chance of winning one of three fantastic prizes.

To sign up to host your own tea party in aid of The Blue Cross and enter the Tea Time Treat competition, please visit www.bluecrossteaparty.org.uk or phone 08444 993 663.

ENDS
Tea party images are available on request (media contact details below) 
*The Blue Cross Tea Time Treat competition:
Recipes should be sent by e-mail to: teaparty@bluecross.org.uk or by post to: The Blue Cross Events Team, Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon, OX18 4PF.
Prizes for the three most tempting recipes include: two tickets for afternoon tea in one of ten top tearooms across the UK; a designer dog collar and lead from Holly & Lil; and a luxury gift set from The Tea Palace.  

Closing date for entries is 12 May 2008.
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.  For more information, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk

Media contact
Ziela Haider, press officer: 020 7932 4063 / 07860 519716 or ziela.haider@bluecross.org.uk