AN animal sanctuary’s annual fundraising event has raised thousands of pounds to enable important work for those in need to continue.

The self-funded Danaher Animal Home hosted its summer fun day on Sunday, raising more than £7,000 which will now go towards helping and temporarily housing abandoned animals.

The family-friendly event, which was officially opened by long-time supporter and medium Ronnie Buckingham, took place at the home’s Wethersfield HQ and was attended by hundreds of guests and their dogs.

The charity day included a variety of entertaining activities and dog competitions which visitors could enter their pooches into, as well as a dunk-a-dog swimming pool.

Bocking Brass Band also performed throughout the day and a barbecue, beer tent, home-made cakes and gift stalls were also on site to help generate vital funds.

Danaher acting chief executive Deborah Satchell said: “We were absolutely thrilled at the number of people who came along on Sunday.

“All the feedback was really positive and we are delighted to have raised so much money for the home.

“We rely entirely on donations, so events like this are incredibly important and a massive thank you must go to everyone who helped and supported us.”