I had great fun on Thursday, April 11th volunteering at New Start Cat Rescue in Huntley, which is the Ross Gazette’s Charity of the Year.

The first thing that hit me as I wandered through the charity’s doors was the sight of all kinds of beautiful cats, and the sound of their happy meows. Perhaps even more amazing was walking through the rooms where every volunteer was working so hard to keep all of the cats content; with feeding, cleaning, cuddles and companionship.

In the morning, I was lucky enough to meet a special arrival of kittens that had just been born, and watched as the volunteers carefully checked on another cat every so often who was expected to give birth shortly.

Everybody I met welcomed me with the warmth and kindness that helps to nurture all of the cats who spend time there. Although it was hard to see some of the poorly cats who had been shown little love before their time at New Start Cat Rescue, it was clear to see how much safer and happier they felt, and previous pictures of them showed just how much their health and wellbeing had improved.

As well as the on-site volunteers who care for the fur babies on a daily basis, New Start Cat Rescue have around 35 fosterers in the local area, almost 20 in Swindon and some in Cirencester. Despite being a fairly small charity, compared to other well-known animal rescues, it has touched the lives of so many cats in need, and has helped to find new families for every one.

On average, animal rescue charities manage to re-home around 200-300 animals each year. New Start Cat Rescue re-homed an outstanding 997 cats last year alone, and are on track for beating that figure this year.

It was heartening to see a family of volunteers so dedicated to their animals in need. Unlike many other charities, New Start Cat Rescue does not return feral cats to the streets once they have been neutered and treated for any diseases, most commonly feline aids. Instead, they work hard to domesticate them and find them a forever home, refusing to let them go unless there is the promise of love and affection for the rest of their lives.

Caring for cats, the charity also has its own newsletter, a team who help families who have recently adopted cats, and volunteers who keep on top of the charity’s social media, emails, and phone calls.

I am very proud that the Ross Gazette have chosen New Start Cat Rescue as their chosen charity this year. The work that the volunteers do is incredible, and I am really looking forward to visiting again soon and saying hello to some new friendly feline faces.See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here