STAFF from Oswaldtwistle animal sanctuary Only Foals and Horses are getting ready to start attending horse and pony auction sales again.

Although the sanctuary, off Haslingden Old Road, is full to capacity, staff have contacts throughout the country who can help to rehome animals.

Olive Lomas, co-ordinator, said: "We will still try to help with every animal inquiry we receive by using our connections to put people in touch.

"It is no exaggeration to say that animal welfare procedures in this country still leave a lot to be desired and if people know of auctions near them we want them to let us know.

"Hundreds of animals, if not thousands, are put through this ordeal every week and in many cases ministry guidelines put forward for basic welfare are blatantly ignored.

"To see the terror and bewilderment of horses and ponies going through an auction for the first time is emotional and traumatic enough but to see utter resignation and hopelessness on the faces of those who have been through it all before is truly heartbreaking."

Anyone with information on upcoming auctions can contact the centre on 01254 235559.