Staff at an RSPCA centre which went without proper heating for four days have criticised energy suppliers for not fixing the problem sooner.

MARTLESHAM: Staff at an RSPCA centre which went without proper heating for four days have criticised energy suppliers for not fixing the problem sooner.

Two rabbits and a mouse died at the centre in Mill Lane and staff feared more would perish until the problem was fixed.

The centre had been without power since Thursday meaning staff had to stumble around the dark while they tended to shivering animals.

Kieron Adams, manager of the centre, said: “It felt like we weren't a priority. I realise elderly people are more vulnerable but four days is such a long time to wait.

“It was so cold that when we topped water bowls up they would freeze a couple of hours later. The animals really suffered and it felt terrible not being able to help.”

Power was cut after a tree fell on an overhead power cable on Thursday night - at the height of last week's snowfall.

Workmen were initially able to restore the heating but only to a third of its capacity.

Ms Adams: “Having some heating was better than nothing but it was still extremely cold. The elderly cats and dogs suffered the most. We had to put special coats on some of the dogs.

“We care for animals that have been neglected so it's really unfair that they had to suffer again.”

A spokesman for EDF Energy said: “Work was completed to repair the damaged overhead network and to reconnect full supply to the site at 2.30pm on Monday.

“We do appreciate how difficult it can be to lose power and heat for such a long time, especially in cold weather, and apologise for the inconvenience caused.”