THE new ‘Hope Kennels’ at Warrington Animal Welfare were officially opened last weekend.

Work was completed in 2015 following a cash injection of £50,000 from Support Adoption For Pets.

The charity was originally established in 1983 by Joan Rimmer and the late June Jackson to provide financial support for pet owners on low income and help them pay to have their pets neutered in a bid to reduce the amount of stray, abandoned and unwanted pets in Warrington.

Janet Thornton, charity trustee, said: “The kennels, which were built last year, replaced the existing ‘kitten wing’ of the old rescue centre.

"The build has been life-changing for the charity and since it was completed we have been able to help an additional 70 unwanted dogs into fantastic new homes.

"We are very appreciative of the financial help we have had."

Dog lovers and Deputy Mayor of Warrington Les Morgan and his wife Gwyn officially opened the kennels followed by an informal reception to celebrate the event.

Caroline Tebbs, centre manager, said: “It was very emotional to stop and take a second to appreciate how many additional dogs we have been able to help find loving, new homes.”

To find out more about the charity, visit warringtonanimalwelfare.org.uk or search for Warrington Animal Welfare on Facebook.