A member of England’s winning team at UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 has been named as an ambassador at an East Lancashire animal sanctuary.
Bleakholt, based in Edenfield, has announced that Keira Walsh, one of the Lionesses part of the 2022 success and a 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup finalist, will work alongside sanctuary president Gemma Atkinson to help promote the work they do.
Walsh, who was born in Rochdale, currently plays for Barcelona having started her career at Blackburn Rovers.
She was named player of the match in England’s World Cup final defeat against Spain last August.
She said: “Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been visiting this sanctuary with my family since I was a child, surrounded by the love and care they provide to animals in need.
“As an animal lover, I believe in giving every creature a second chance, whether they’re traditional pets or the farm animals that find refuge here.
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“Becoming an ambassador for Bleakholt is an honour, and I’m committed to spreading awareness about their vital work.”
Sanctuary manager Karen Weed added: “We are delighted to welcome Keira as an ambassador for Bleakholt.
“We know of Keira’s love of animals and for her to want to invest her time in helping to promote Bleakholt is wonderful.
“We can’t wait to welcome her to Bleakholt again when the football season finishes.”
The sanctuary has recently taken in a French bulldog named Frankie who, after his arrival, was found to struggle when eating and choked on several occasions.
Scans show that Frankie requires extensive BOAS surgery, which involves removing excess tissue in his airways to enable him to breathe properly and be able to eat without the risk of choking.
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With this costing in excess of £3,500 and with lots or large bills already this year, Bleakholt sought donations towards his surgery and received more than £3,800 in just two days.
A spokesperson said: “He is only a year old and such a sweet boy who deserves the best.”
They have also taken in three abandoned cats that were left at the premises in carriers.
The stables manager at Bleakholt heard a car reversing onto the driveway and when investigating, discovered the cats.
Bleakholt say they are doing well though are understandably frightened, and they will be available for homing in a few weeks when they have been neutered and have fully recovered.
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