A new food bank for pets has been created to help residents look after their animal companions during the cost-of-living crisis.

Sheppey Pet Angels was set up by three animal lovers to alleviate financial struggles for owners.

It will rely on people donating pet food directly to the group, as well as other donated items that the group can then sell at auction during monthly fundraisers.

One founder, Dawn Elisia, from Sheerness, says the initiative will benefit anyone with a pet in the area.

She said: "We decided to set up Sheppey Pet Angels to help those who have fallen on hard times, and after realising there wasn't a pet food bank on the Island.

"Nobody should have to choose between feeding themselves or their pet, or worse, having to make the heartbreaking decision to give their pet away because of not having the money to feed them.

"We will be holding auctions to raise money for monthly supply shops, so if you're having a clear out and simply have anything suitable to donate for our auctions we would be so grateful as pets are family.

"It could be anything new or in good condition from household items, toys, outdoors, clothes, electrical or beauty items.

"If you also have any unwanted pet related items, I’m sure we have some members that would love to put them to good use."

The group, which already has nearly 500 members, got its first food donation from Queenborough Test Centre within 24 hours of launching.

They then used this and other donations to help fellow residents such as Caroline Norton and her 14 rescue cats.

Ms Norton, who during lockdown sold her car and gave up her Sky TV subscription to care for her cats, added: "I do what I do and many people like me look after street cats.

"I've continued for the last 13 years to help as many cats as I can, and all 14 of my cats have been rescued either from the streets or just unwanted.

"But it's not just my animals who I have rescued over the years - it's cats that continue to live on the streets through no fault of their own, so we have to be their voice in making sure they are fed, watered and with a roof over their head."

Organisers have confirmed they hope to have their first first auction this Sunday, with updates to follow later this week.