AN animal rescue farm is asking for donations to stock up on feed due to potential shortages due to coronavirus fears.

Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary, in Asheldham, is home to more than 400 rescued animals.

The cost of feeding such a large group runs into thousands of pounds every month.

With the concern of coronavirus making it difficult to keep enough food, a member of the volunteer group has set up an online crowdfunder.

Volunteer Martin Morgan said: “The speed at which the coronavirus is spreading has already caused people to start panic buying and it does seem inevitable that, whether warranted or not, there will be disruptions to certain supply chains over the coming weeks and months.

“We have to take this threat seriously as we not only have ourselves to keep well for the sake of the animals that rely on us for daily feed and care, but we also need to ensure that we have adequate stocks of feed in place to see them through until this situation improves.”

“We have been working hard with farmers to ensure that we have adequate supplies of forage in stock at our disposal until the larger animals can get out onto the grass.

“However, the problem is that pigs cannot survive on forage - they need to be fed.

“We have ordered some 15 tons of pig nuts to ensure that we have adequate supplies for a couple of months - in case our usual feed supply dries up.

“This is a precautionary move - we sincerely hope that the worst-case scenarios don't play out, but with all these mouths dependant on us, we must plan ahead and act accordingly.”

To find out more, visit facebook.com/towerhillstables.