MP visits the West Sussex Branch of the RSPCA

On Friday 6th May, Arundel and South Downs MP Andrew Griffith toured the new buildings at Mount Noddy Animal Centre – the West Sussex Branch of the RSPCA – ahead of its official opening on 2nd July. It has been shortlisted for a Sussex Heritage Award.

Andrew heard about how the RSPCA is seeing a post-lockdown influx of pets for rehoming and met with: the Animal Centre Manager, Susan Botherway, the Branch Treasurer, Maureen Fallon, Trustee, Isabelle Glenister as well as the rest of the team.

Redevelopment of Mount Noddy Animal Centre

The ambitious redevelopment of Mount Noddy since it was built more than 50 years ago includes 20 new kennels and over 40 catteries, with a hydrotherapy treadmill, dedicated veterinary suites and a secure exercise area known as the Field of Dreams – which will be available to rent for members of the public and their dogs for safe off lead walks.

The branch has also launched the Animal Welfare Officer role, which involves working out in the community to reach people who may not have the ability to bring the animals in to the centre.

Community Animal Centre reliant on donations

Mount Noddy is solely reliant on people’s donations, with five charity shops based in Bognor, Chichester, Worthing, Horsham and Littlehampton, as well as fundraising events including the Mount Noddy Fun Dog Show and Fete on the 16th July at Madehurst Cricket Club.

Andrew Griffith said: “It is fabulous to see how Mount Noddy is helping the local community and to learn about their important work within the Animal Centre itself: rehoming, fostering and caring for the dogs and cats. The new centre will become an exciting hub for animal welfare in the West of Sussex.”