RACING punters have come up trumps for a Horwich animal charity.

Lexus Greyhound Rescue has received a donation of £450 following a special race night at Westhoughton Dog Track and the Horwich branch of Ladbrokes has handed over a cheque for £242. The cash is a godsend to Pat Graham, who runs the charity from her home at George Street, where she looks after greyhounds and whippets which have been ill-used or abandoned by unscrupulous owners.

At one stage this summer Pat and two helpers were caring for 17 dogs following the closures of Oldham dog track and uncertainty over the future of others. However in addition to the cash windfall, owners of the Westhoughton track also delivered five huge sacks of dog food and six collars and leads.

"It seemed to be never ending. They've really done us proud," said a delighted Pat. When Pat first approached Arthur Brightcliffe, one of the family owners of the Westhoughton track for help, she held out little hope, even though he promised he would do what he could. I thought 'I've heard it all before'. But he kept his word and really came up trumps, and so quickly. Arthur really cares enough about the dogs to do something to help," added Pat.

Ladbrokes organised a race night at Horwich Reform Club on Winter Hey Lane which was attended by about 70 people.

Manager Angela Harding, said that the shop was part of the local community and her team wanted to raise funds to help local organisations. Pat is currently looking after nine dogs, including a puppy. Anyone genuinely interested in giving one of them a home should contact Pat on Horwich 668589.

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