Haunted house raises money for homeless animals

Four fearless animal charity workers from The Blue Cross are to spend Halloween night in an allegedly haunted building in aid of Thirsk's homeless animals.

The animal adoption centre in Topcliffe has an isolation block made out of a converted barn, and rumour has it that the ghostly apparitions of airmen from the Second World War have been seen in the barn, as well as spectral cats that have previously lived on site. The four women who will be braving the scariest night of the year in the haunted barn are Denise Younger, Rachel Ekin, Claire Roberts, and Lyn Raine who all work at the centre, and are taking part in order to raise money to help care for the homeless animals waiting for homes at the centre.

Deputy centre manager Jackie Haw said: These four brave ladies are going to spend the night watching out for ghosts and ghouls of airmen and long dead cats, and it would be great for local animals lovers to support them as all the money raised goes to help the living creatures we are caring for right now.

All animals The Blue Cross having been neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. They also come with six weeks' free pet insurance and the ongoing help and support of Blue Cross staff. The Blue Cross receives no government funding and is entirely reliant on public donations.

Anyone who thinks they can sponsor the ghostbusters should call The Blue Cross adoption centre on 01845 577 759 or visit Parklands, Station Road, Topcliffe, Thirsk, North Yorks, YO7 3SE.

Media contact: Su Crown
Direct line: 020 7932 4066
Mobile: 07880 781 637

Notes to editors
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.

Photos of animals waiting for homes available on request.