An Oswaldtwistle animal sanctuary is calling for help in a bid to stave off a cash crisis.

Staff at Only Foals and Horses say it costs £3,500 every week to keep the centre, on Redshell Lane, up and running.

But now the centre, which has been caring for needy animals since 1989, is facing a cash crisis, made worse by the freezing winter conditions.

Boss John Noble said: "All our animals are now stabled for the winter and we have 120 horses, ponies and donkeys inside for the next three months.

"As a result, money is a big problem.

"We rely on public donations just to keep going and January has been very poor after Christmas.

"Things can get horrendous with the economic climate as it is.

"People may think twice about putting their hands in their pocket and donating.

"We are struggling to meet our costs this winter as we are very short of funds."

The charity works to rescue very young foals and older horses who are at risk of mistreatment and neglect.

It pays to rehabilitate and rest the sick or malnourished, and retire those animals which are old and lame.

Mr Noble said: "The main expense we have is the cost of providing the straw, the feed and vets’ costs during the cold winter months. In the summer, when they are out in the fields grazing, then our costs go down quite a bit.

"There are several ways in which people can help us out. They can make a donation, or set up a monthly standing order.

"They can also adopt one of our animals for just £15 a year. If they do that, they will get a certificate and a photograph of the animal."

He added: "They can also, of course, set up their own fundraising event and we are very grateful for all help we get."

If you would like to help the sanctuary, give the charity a ring on 01254 239995.