felixstowe: Campaigners who fought to save Felixstowe’s treasured Blue Cross animal rescue centre are preparing to step up to the next challenge – and raise �1million to ensure it stays open.

The appeal will be called Complete the Dream and a fundraising committee has now been set up to co-ordinate the work involved.

An official launch is being planned but some fundraising has started already with people keen to donate to the project to buy a a strip of land at the rear of the centre in Walton High Street to create a much-needed dog exercise area, and refurbish the shelter’s premises.

Andrew Gillon, manager of the animal adoption centre, said: “We’ve formed a fundraising committee of very enthusiastic supporters and have had an exciting first meeting with support from the Blue Cross fundraising director, Roger Mitty.

“We’re now starting intensive planning to kick off a massive fundraising campaign to reach our target of �1m to refurbish and extend the Felixstowe centre, if the extra land can be secured.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge so we need every bit of support we can get from the public to continue helping animals in need in our area.”

Tom Crowley, chairman of the committee, said: “Our dream was to save the centre and now we are halfway there – the Complete the Dream appeal will complete the journey and make sure the centre stays here in Felixstowe to continue its wonderful work.

“The first task has been to draw up a case for support which will be the action plan we work to and the first draft of that has been completed.

“We know it’s not going to be easy because this is a difficult time to be raising funds and there are many charities needing the public’s help, but we are enthusiastic and raring to go and are planning an appeal full of momentum.”

The Evening Star Save the Blue Cross campaign gained huge support from across the community with 16,000 people signing the petition.

? Readers can register their interest in supporting the appeal by contacting the centre on 01394 283 254 or felixstowe@bluecross.org.uk.