TIME is running out for abandoned and sick animals who are looked after by the dedicated staff and volunteers at Blackpool's Longview Animal Centre.

The Blackpool and North Lancashire branch of the RSPCA launched its "4,000 Friends Appeal" at the end of last year as the centre was suffering severe financial problems and facing imminent closure.

Unfortunately, the centre is still a way off achieving its fund-raising target of 4,000 people pledging to pay £2 each month and is still facing closure in May 2002.

The centre had also organised a special Valentine's Ball to help raise funds but has had to cancel due to lack of interest.

Animal centre manager Carol Jones explained the importance of keeping it open.

She said: "There is a tremendous need for a centre of this type in the area and its closure would put an unacceptable strain on surrounding districts and their animal homes."

A spokesperson from the centre spoke collectively on behalf of staff at the centre: "While we appreciate that the actual building at Longview is deteriorating and will need to be replaced by a larger more modern centre in the near future, we feel that because of the tremendous need for this type of facility in this area, the best needs of the animals would be met by retaining Longview until a new centre could be built.

"As you will appreciate this is a tremendous task but one that we feel can be overcome 'with a little help from our friends'. If we can persuade 4,000 people to commit themselves to a donation of at least £2 per month we can raise the amount necessary to keep Longview going for the immediate future.

"We feel that this amount is within most people's pocket (of course we won't object if anyone does want to donate more) but it is the regular commitment that is vital not just the amount."

Anyone who would like to help can obtain a direct debit form from the centre on Division Lane, Blackpool, or by calling them direct on (01253) 763991.