£31,219 raised at gala to rebuild rescue centre for pets

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More than £31,000 has been raised to help rebuild a rescue centre.

The charity gala was held at The Grove in support of the National Animal Welfare Trust’s (NAWT) Watford centre.

It raised £31,219 to help fund a new, modern facility for homeless animals.

Peter Egan and Rob Mitchell (Image: Jermaine Chandra)

Josie Hantonne, fundraising officer at NAWT, said: "Thanks to the guests, supporters and all those who donated prizes, provided entertainment, services and support to make it such a memorable night. Your generosity is helping us turn our vision for a new rescue centre into a reality and helping ensure that NAWT can continue to be there for homeless pets for many years to come."

The charity has cared for thousands of pets over the years but says the existing centre is now urgently in need of rebuilding. Plans for the new centre aim to improve facilities and provide a more comfortable, welcoming environment for animals waiting for permanent homes.

Elite Elton (Image: Jermaine Chandra)

The gala was hosted by actor Peter Egan and featured performances by Rak Su and Elite Elton, a raffle, silent auction, and a live auction led by BBC antiques dealer and Flog It! host Paul Martin.

Auction prizes included a dog-friendly weekend getaway, tickets to Ricky Gervais’ sold-out Watford shows, and naming rights for a kennel block at the new centre. The event also received support from corporate sponsors including PetPlan, Service Innovation Group, Mediahawk, and Pet Database.

Anyone wishing to learn more or offer support can contact the National Animal Welfare Trust by calling 0208 950 0177 or emailing reception@nawt.org.uk.

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