OPENING its doors to the public for the first time has given Animal Aid a major cash injection. More than 2,000 islanders went to the charity’s open days at the weekend, raising more than £5,000.

‘The idea is to show people what we do, what work we have done in the past, what we want to do in the future and, of course, to raise some much-needed funds so that we have a future,’ said the charity’s founder, Sue Vidamour.

The charity, based at Tudor Lodge Deer Farm, Forest, has previously opened only to members and those who were part of the adopt-an-animal scheme.

The open days gave islanders the chance to see the animals at first hand, buy some of the merchandise and take a woodland walk.

‘There is a lot of talk about what Animal Aid does but this gives the chance for people to see for themselves what we actually do,’ said Mrs Vidamour.

Animal Aid specialises in treating the island’s feral cat problem and also carries out dog rehousing and horse and wildlife rescue. In the last six months, it has expanded its rabbit rescue operations.

‘It has been a brilliant day; I’m delighted. Many people have said how great it has been, what a brilliant job we are doing and that we should open all the time for the public.

‘If we did do that, though, it would not be just for the money but also to raise awareness of what we do and give people a memorable experience.’

Mrs Vidamour is now planning another open day for August.