The Glastonbury building contractor Melhuish and Saunders is helping rescue animals by supporting a Somerset sanctuary.

A second lockdown and now winter has made it a very tough time for the Ferne Animal Sanctuary charity near Chard, which is 90 per cent down on its normal income with Covid closures.

Winter is always an expensive time for an animal charity, and Ferne are particularly grateful to their ongoing and our new corporate supporters, which include Melhuish and Saunders who help to support the charity's work through this costly time.

Managing director of Melhuish and Saunders, Darryl Mitchard, said: "We feel honoured to be supporting such a great charity, they've been looking after animals throughout the Covid-19 crisis, and their revenue from visitors has disappeared due to the national lockdowns so it made sense to do our bit to help.

"We urge others to go out and support their local charities if they can, it's been a tough year for them and they do so much for our local communities."

Support from local businesses through Ferne's Corporate Sponsorship scheme is an invaluable source of much-appreciated revenue to help them meet their rising costs.

As well as Melhuish and Saunders, the charity is supported by a number of companies including DP Associates, Rathbone Investment Management, Oscar Meyer, Petplan, Hilton Herbs, Anthony Harris IFA, PKF Francis Clark, Coombefield Veterinary Hospital, RH Advertising, Everys solicitors and Springvale Equipment.

Elaine Hayes, CEO of Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: "With the massive reduction in our income, our corporate support has been a lifeline to help us continue to look after all the animals in our care.

"The support from local businesses who are keen to help us continue our work as their chosen local and well-respected charity to support has been amazing.

"Their support makes a huge difference to the work we can continue to do at Ferne, especially at this incredibly difficult time."

To find out more about becoming one of a corporate supporters, you can have a look here.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a registered charity and relies on the support of the public and dedicated volunteers to continue its work. Ferne has been caring for unwanted and abandoned animals for more than 75 years.