Animal hospital at risk unless urgent action taken (From Enfield Independent)

Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service in Trent Country Park at risk unless urgent action taken

10:35am Thursday 1st November 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

The only wildlife animal hospital in London is at risk unless urgent action is taken.

The Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service in Trent Country Park cares for sick and injured creatures before releasing them into the wild.

However, Enfield Borough Council, which part funds the centre in Cockfosters Road, has admitted it is difficult to continue supporting such projects in cash-strapped times.

Barry and June Smitherman, who set up the charity in 1985, have warned that they are in desperate need of donations and volunteers.

Mr Smitherman said: "The bottom line is that the more volunteers we have the more sick and injured animals we can save and the more good we can do, we really are stretched to the limit at the moment.

"We're desperate for volunteers to help out and save lives."

Cabinet member for environment, Cllr Chris Bond, said: "We help fund some of this wonderful organisation's running costs but unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more difficult to financially support organisations like this in the current financial climate.

“We'll continue to assist for as long as we are able but I'd urge people to help out, either by giving up some of their time, by visiting the centre or by making a donation."

He said the charity does a "wonderful job" caring for sick and injured animals and the council will continue supporting it for "as long as we can."

If an animal cannot be released into the wild, it stays at the centre or is taken to a sanctuary.

There is approximately 200 animals and birds who have found a permanent home at the centre.

Mr and Mrs Smitherman were awarded with MBEs in the Queen's New Year's Honours List in 2005 for services to animal welfare.