AN urgent appeal has been issued on behalf of Bolton's four-legged friends this Christmas.

Staff at the Destitute Animal Shelter are urging the public to help them keep scores of dogs and cats fed and warm during the festive season.

While many pets will enjoy all the comforts of home, abandoned animals at the Northolt Drive centre face the prospect of a bleak Christmas without the assistance of BEN readers.

Donations of food, blankets and cash are urgently required at the shelter.

Because of the strict diets followed by shelter staff they are asking the public to only donate specific types of food.

Suitable types are Chappie, Butcher's Tripe and varieties of tinned cat food.

Honorary secretary Jennifer Moore is also hoping some of the dogs in the shelter could get the perfect seasonal gift - a new home for Christmas.

Jennifer said: "I am sure there are many people who face a quiet Christmas, after all not everyone is having a non-stop party.

"Some of our dogs would provide excellent companions in those kind of homes."

Anyone who can help in any way can visit the shelter or telephone 526486.

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