Pet care facility is now open

FIRST . . . Nova the first cat to arrive at the centre with animal care assistant Kane Mills

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A NEW RSPCA centre in Strinesdale is now in operation after the blue ribbon was cut to open its doors yesterday.

The £1.7million centre became officially operational after a ceremony attended by the charity's chiefs and staff along with trustees who helped make the project possible.

Not just a shelter for vulnerable animals - which currently houses six dogs and 19 cats - the centre will reach out to the community to educate people on how best to treat an animal.

It will look to inform children from an early age and invite classes from surrounding schools to give them a hands on experience with the animals, who will be in a more familiar and suitable surrounding, allowing both parties to be more at ease.

Other plans include bringing in student vets to learn their trade as they work alongside qualified vets.

Jeremy Cooper, RSPCA chief executive, said: "I have had a tour round and I am absolutely amazed. The work that has gone in by the team is just outstanding.

"When you go inside and you see the difference from a year ago to now. The building they have got now to help improve the lives of animals is incredible.

"It is the thinking in detail when making the building that only comes with the experience of the staff who worked with the builders and architect.

"Things like keeping cats and dog kennels separate, segregated rooms for sick animals so illness doesn't spread. It is well thought through. There are many years of experience shown here."

Denise McCabe, the centre's operations director, added: "Part of the education is teaching children to understand that an animal is almost like your friend and say 'how would you treat your friend?', it's about getting that care across about how to treat an animal.

"We will be having classes so the children can interact with the animals. We provide engagement with them. I'm very proud of the centre."

The centre will be open to the public on Sunday from noon until 4pm when visitors are invited to view the animal accommodation, speak with staff, see the operating theatre and the new shop.

The dog kennels will not be open on the day, but free access will be granted to the cattery where there are 20 cats currently looking for new homes.

The project has been in the making since Emmanuel Whittaker began work at the Holgate Street site in February last year.

However, the RSPCA emphasised that none of this would have been possible without donations from the public. Earlier this year, Oldham chartered surveyors Breakey & Nuttall launched a £50,000 Challenge to help raise funds for the cause.

About £30,000 is still required to complete the other finishing touches and those at the centre would welcome any help and additional funds to keep it running.

To donate visit rspca-buryoldham.org.uk/help-us-build-our-animal-centre/.