Bosses at an animal rescue centre are counting the cost after Storm Eunice tore through shelters and food stores.

The repair bill for the Retreat Animal Rescue, in High Halden, is expected to surpass £20,000, with yet more damage expected to be uncovered in the coming days.

Billy Thompson discusses the damage to the centre

A number of the sanctuary's vulnerable residents have lost their homes due to the ferocious winds, with areas occupied by pigs, horses and birds all being hit hard by the wind.

Billy Thompson, project director at the site between Ashford and Tenterden, is now looking after a host of animals in his home which has turned into Kent's version of Noah's Ark.

A fundraising appeal to help cover the cost of the damage dealt by Eunice has been set up, and has already earned more than £2,000.

Mr Thompson says witnessing the storm was a "terrifying" spectacle, but is thankful no animals were injured.

"We've had buildings tipped over," he said. "Many animal buildings have sadly been damaged.

"Unfortunately it was a lot worse than we anticipated.

"A few of our disabled bird aviaries literally took off.

"It's been a massive evacuation of animals that were in areas that are now broken to the ground.

"At the moment I've got turkeys in the shower cubicle in the house and tortoises in my bath. The house has become like Noah's Ark."

The Cripple Hill sanctuary, which is dedicated to saving tormented, abused, sick, injured and unwanted animals, was founded back in 1989.

Its hay store, chicken garden and hay shelter are among the areas now in a sorry state.

The JustGiving page has already smashed its target of £500, and donations continue to be added.

Mr Thompson added: "Donations are flooding in and we are so grateful.

"The Great British public are amazing.

"We've never had this sort of damage, so it's going to cost a fortune."