A CAT rescue service has been saved - thanks to the generosity of Evening Telegraph readers.

Owner Maureen Savage revealed that Moggies Cat Rescue, Darwen, which has been running for 12 years, received an eleventh-hour reprieve after the overwhelming response.

Donations of more than £2,000 flooded in and 27 kittens have been found good homes since Maureen asked for help in the Evening Telegraph less than three weeks ago.

She had received a £2,500 vet bill and was struggling to afford the food and litter for the 41 abandoned and unwanted kittens, one pregnant cat, five cats with kittens and eight adult cats she was looking after.

But she has now said that, despite still needing regular donations of food and litter materials, she has managed to get the scheme back on track.

She said: "I am so grateful to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph for featuring my appeal and I am amazed at the response. I want to thank all the people who have contacted me and given me donations.

"A lot of people have posted cheques without an address so I can't thank them personally, but I want them to know they were greatly appreciated.

"I have been able to pay off almost all the vet bill and home many of the kittens, freeing up some space for the new litters.

"One lady said she was going to leave Moggies money in her will but decided to give it me now instead.

"I have homed about 27 kittens. There are still a lot left but it's been excellent. At least I can carry on. The support has been lovely."

Maureen will continue her fundraising on Saturday, July 9, when she holds a Moggies Market at St Peter's Primary School, Mill Hill.

It takes place between 10am and 1pm and features various stalls. Maureen will also give advice on caring for cats and kittens as well as having photographs of the animals which need a new home.

Maureen can be contacted on 01254 708171.