THERE has been some confusion recently over the closure of the local RSPCA Longview Animal Home. I hope the following will let the public know the current situation. Solely due to lack of funding the Longview Animal Home is to close at the end of May but if sufficient guaranteed funds can be raised by March 31, the committee of the RSPCA Blackpool and North Lancs Branch will re-consider.

As a volunteer worker at the RSPCA I know at first hand how great the need is for the animal home. Hundreds of unwanted, injured and cruelly treated animals pass through the home and the small band of dedicated staff do a tremendous job in caring for them and finding homes for all these unfortunate creatures. No animal is put to sleep at Longview unless this is recommended by a vet as the kindest thing to do.

Many people think the home is funded by the national RSPCA. This is not so. The Blackpool and North Lancs Branch is a self-funding branch and has to raise money for the day-to-day running of the home which includes payment of vet's bills, food for the animals, staff wages, rates, heating, water, light and many other expenses which during the year 2000 amounted to £155,000.

Supporters and staff during the last few weeks have been working very hard with a fund-raising scheme to save the home. If 4,000 people in the area would donate, by standing order, just £2 a month (only 50p a week), then there is a very good chance that the home could be saved. (Of course, there would be no complaint if you were to subscribe more!) This would provide a guaranteed yearly income and is the only way the home can survive. Surely there are 4,000 animal lovers out there who could afford 50p a week? Standing order forms can be obtained by ringing Longview Animal Home between 11am and 3.30pm (telephone (01253) 763991) any day but Monday or by calling in at the RSPCA charity shop on Talbot Road, Blackpool.

So come on Fylde animal lovers, you don't want Longview to close and you have until the end of March to do something about it. This is our very last chance so please do help now. Fill in a standing order and be as generous as you can.

Eileen Heritage,

Staining.