A TRAFFORD animal sanctuary could be forced to close -unless Messenger readers come to the rescue.

The Society for Abandoned Animals (SAA) has provided a haven for discarded pets for more than four decades.

But the SAA says the recession has had such a dramatic effect that it is facing the worst crisis in its history - and has launched an emergency appeal to raise £50,000 to avert closure.

The sanctuary - which has running costs of around £200,000 a year - has seen donations and legacies plummet during the economic slump - while it has also had to cope with an increase in the number of abandoned animals brought in.

The centre - at Barfoot Bridge on the Sale/Stretford border - is totally dependent on the public's generosity.

Nik Iddon, chairman of the trustees, said: "The SAA is a very important part of the community, doing good work for domestic animal welfare.

"But we have to maintain our fundraising levels through this difficult time in order to sustain our existence. That is why we are launching this emergency appeal to all animal lovers and our supporters."

The SAA - also known as the Peggy Henderson Animal Sanctuary - has been treating and re-homing abandoned animals since 1966.

In the past five years the SAA has re-homed 1,186 cats, 290 rabbits and 262 dogs.

The charity also organises community fun days at the sanctuary, outdoor events, animal awareness days, veterinary clinics and school teaching visits.

Newly appointed general manager Bob Gregson is taking a substantial pay cut to show his commitment to the sanctuary and the SAA is re-establishing a charity shop later this year. It also has a longer term goal of developing new dog kennel facilities.

But this won't be enough - in order to survive it urgently needs support from Trafford's residents - either through donations or fundraising events.

Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/sfaa, by a cheque made out to SAA or by cash at the SAA office. Cheques should be sent to the Society for Abandoned Animals, Mosley Acre Farm, Barfoot Bridge, Stretford M32 9UP.

SAA is holding a summer open day on August 8 at its centre, which is down the canal towpath off Dane Road, Sale.