Take the time to give this Christmas to animal rescue charities looking after abandoned pets over the festive season.

That is the message from staff at Burnham House Veterinary Surgery in Dover’s Castle Street who are hosting a fundraiser.

People can donate items or money to the surgery’s charity shop for cats and other animals which need help.

All items will go towards the specially made up boxes and stockings for the animals in time for December 25.

Assistant Katie Wells said: “We are also keen to give pets in rescue centres a stocking of their own.

“So come in and choose a pet to send a gift to.”

Animals at Rhodes Minnis Cat Sanctuary in Seathwaite, Canterbury, and Happy Endings Dog Rescue will benefit as both charities give out the gifts on Christmas day.

All profits from sales of pet gifts will also be donated.

People can use any of the branches in Cambridge Road, Walmer, Bewsbury Cross Lane in Whitfield or Dover Road in Folkestone.