Centre has ‘most terrible night’

A RESCUE centre which experienced “the most terrible night ever” as Storm Arwen damaged their property and caused the death of a puppy has received huge financial support from the public overnight.

Owner of Many Tears Animal Rescue Centre in Cefneithin, Sylvia Van Atta said she was in disbelief to discover more than £65,000 had been raised online in response to an appeal made for help after the events at their Cefneithin base.

The storm, which saw almost winds of 81mph batter the West Wales coast, ripped metal roofing off its barn and classroom building, and also resulted in the death of a 10-day-old puppy, Florence, after it became too cold after the centre was left without any power or electricity.

People have responded generously, not just financially, but with other support to help out the rescue centre during their hour of need.

Mrs Van Atta, who runs the centre with her husband Bill, said: “People have been so kind, they have brought all sorts of things. Some people have been made aware of us for the first time, I think some didn’t know we existed, but it’s been very nice. People have made it so much better. I won’t forget that we lost Florence over this, but it has really been an eye opener how kind people are.

“I’m very focused on the dogs and looking after them and trying to get it right, but when I was told how much had been raised, I just couldn’t believe it. I can’t believe that people care that much – I know they care, but it’s just amazing really.

Describing the state of their building now, Mrs Van Atta said: “It’s a lot better, it’s calm and it looks tidy.”