A rock legend joined TV personalities for a special event on the outskirts of Ipswich.
Rick Wakeman opened the Blue Cross rehoming centre’s 10th anniversary event in Wherstead on Monday, and met animals in care alongside Britain’s Got Talent tenor Jonathan Antoine and Traitors star Alex Gray with her partner Tom Elderfield.
Mr Wakeman is best known for his work as the keyboard player in the rock band Yes.
Charles White, centre manager at Blue Cross Suffolk, said: "We were delighted to welcome Rick, Jonathan, Alex, Tom and their families to our centre and show them the vital work we are doing to help sick, injured and homeless pets.
"I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who came along to help us celebrate this milestone at Wherstead.
"We’re set to help more pets than ever this year and wouldn’t be able to continue our work without the incredible support of our local community."
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During their visit, the celebrity guests toured the centre, met a cat named Hope and her kittens, and later helped judge the day’s dog show, which included categories such as Loveliest Large Dog and Sweetest Small Dog.
The open day offered visitors an inside look at the centre’s work through guided tours and raised more than £4,200 for the charity.
Based on Bourne Hill, the Blue Cross Wherstead centre opened in 2016, replacing its Felixstowe site after 40 years.
Over the past year, the Wherstead centre has helped more than 1,000 sick, injured and homeless dogs, cats and small animals receive vital care and find loving new homes.
The centre’s larger, modern facilities have improved its ability to care for and rehome animals in need.
The event was part of Blue Cross’s effort to raise awareness about pet adoption, fostering, and volunteering.
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