IT'S a purr-fect result for Blackpool's animal lovers this week as a doomed animal centre is given a three month extension to raise vital funds.

Longview, in Division Lane, is part of the RSCPA Blackpool and North Lancs branch and was expected to close down on May 31 due to its poor finances.

But now RSPCA trustees have relented after fund-raisers continuously campaigned to keep the centre open. Workers from the centre also set up a monthly direct debit scheme for local animal lovers -- publicised by the Citizen --and held numerous cash collecting events.

Longview has now been set a target of raising £2,500 in monthly donations which they must meet in three months.

A spokesperson for the fund-raisers said: "We are overjoyed to have been given this chance and are determined to reach the target set for us.

"It's very timely that it's also national RSPCA Week this week and we have lots of events such as a charity night at Layton Institute on Sunday (May 05) with a live band. We are also offering micro-chipping for cats and dogs for just £10 up to and including Friday (May 03), and are collecting in Tesco's all week."

Longview is currently caring for 20 dogs, 17 cats, four rabbits, 27 mice and two budgies.

Branch treasurer Les Jones said: "The decision to close Longview was a very difficult one for the trustees to reach.

"We have looked at numerous ways of raising enough money to keep it open. We are delighted the that staff and supporters have now raised money for branch funds and feel they should be given this extra three months to prove to us that they can raise the required money.

"This is the last opportunity. Without this extra monthly £2,500 being raised by the end of August the centre will close. That is final."

The charity night at Layton Institute, Westcliffe Drive, on Sunday (May 5), runs from 8pm to late with live band Heartbeat. Admission is £2. To sign up for a £2 monthly direct debit to help to save the centre, telephone (01253) 763991.