Kentish Express Ashford & District
Bake Off’s Paul Hollywood backs animal sanctuary
Bake Off presenter Paul Hollywood has become an ambassador for an animal sanctuary near Ashford.
The baker and TV presenter who lives in Smarden has joined the Big Cat Sanctuary in the village, and his first action was to urge people to support the conservation charity in difficult times.
He said: “I’m delighted to become part of The Big Sanctuary’s family as an ambassador.
“But I’m joining at a time when 2021 has already been a hard year.
“We’ve said goodbye to two of our much-loved cats, Kafara the lion and Martin the cheetah, and because of the Covid situation, the charity is unable to run the exclusive experiences that normally bring in vital funds to keep it going.
“The team at the sanctuary have developed a Cat Care Gift campaign, where just a small donation will support these amazing endangered during the winter months.
“I’m asking people to join me and buy a Cat Care Gift for your favourite cat, like one of mine, Laila the Snow Leopard. Please, go online, get involved and donate. Thank you.”
Last month, a spokesman said: “At this testing time we are unable to run our usual experiences and overnight stays, and so are relying on donations and fundraising to raise the £3,000 a day needed to give care, shelter and food for these amazing animals.”
An online JustGiving page has so far raised more than £84,000.
■ You can buy a Cat Care Gift by visiting www.thebigcatsanctuary.org