THE cattery at a new rescue and rehoming centre for abandoned and neglected animals near Worcester is now complete.

The Holdings cattery at Broomhall near Worcester has 20 pens as the pet project of the RSPCA Worcester and Mid Worcestershire branch clears another important hurdle.

Each pen has its own thermostat with a heater and fan to get the required temperature.

There are shelves at the back and side of the pens, where the cats can look out and see what's going on outside.

We have previously reported how the cattery is part of a £1 million project at the five acre site which began during a centenary appeal in 2011.

Trustee Geraldine Haynes said: "We think our rescue cats will love their new pens.

"They deserve the best conditions possible while they're in our care and they will certainly get it."

The branch is in the process of recruiting the new animal centre manager and animal care assistants.

As soon as the staff are in place, the cats will be transferred from the private cattery we've been using.

Mrs Haynes said: "It is hoped this will happen next month and our licence will be issued from October 1.

"We would welcome volunteers who would like to be part of this exciting new project to help animals most in need from the Worcester, Malvern, Upton, Pershore, Droitwich, Redditch and Bromsgrove areas.

"Initially the centre will open with just cats, but will expand when we have raised funds to build the new reception building with vets room, grooming room and spacious kennel block.

"It will provide excellent care for 20 dogs, with large runs and exercise areas. When funding allows, another phase will provide accommodation for rabbits and small animals."

The branch is looking to recruit a new administrator to be based at The Holdings at Broomhall on the outskirts of Worcester. The post will be for 20 hours a week, Mondays to Fridays from 9.30am to 1.30pm and will take care of all the administrative duties at the new centre.

Anyone wishing to apply for this post, please send for an application form to:

worcester_rspca@btconnect.com

or write to The Branch Secretary, RSPCA Worcester & Mid-Worcestershire Branch, The Holdings, Holdings Lane, Broomhall, Worcester WR5 3FP.

Anyone who is interested in making a donation to the project or would like to sponsor a cat each month can call Geraldine on 01886 822083 for more information about donating.

To volunteer at the centre visit the branch website: rspcaworcester.org.uk