AN APPEAL is being launched by the RSPCA to raise £2.5million in order to build a state-of-the-art sanctuary for cats and dogs in the Cotswolds.

The centre, planned for Cambridge near Dursley, will become a haven for animals that have been abandoned, abused or neglected or where families can simply no longer look after them.

Carolyn Blackburn, chairman of The Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home, said: “We have insufficient capacity in private boarding to support every animal that needs our help. The centre will enable us to help an additional 500 animals a year. This figure will increase as the centre becomes established.

“Sadly, we still encounter significant animal cruelty, neglect and abandonment within the area.

“We are also seeing a large increase in animals coming into our care from broken homes or from situations where people have lost their homes. We will never get used to seeing a grown man in tears as he has to sign his companion over for re-homing because he has nowhere to live. These animals are the silent victims of the recession.”

The South Cotswolds branch of the RSPCA runs a number of charity shops in the area which will be raising funds for the new building.

The appeal is being supported by Cotswold author Jilly Cooper, who said: “We must do all we can to help them in building this marvellous new rescue centre which will alleviate the suffering and provide sanctuary and loving homes for not only today’s animals but those of future generations.”

Gloucestershire currently has limited provisions in terms of helping neglected animals.

It is thought that around 2,000 pets a year would benefit from the new centre.

Anyone wishing to donate should visit www.cotswoldsdogsandcatshome.org.uk