CONSERVATIVE MP Cheryl Gillan pledged her support for the Blue Cross animal welfare charity when she recently visited one of its animal centres in Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire.

Mrs Gillan, MP for Chesham and Amersham is heavily involved in animal welfare issues and has two dogs herself. She is currently backing a new Private Members’ Bill on firework reform and the Blue Cross is also involved in providing advice on this Bill.

Mrs Gillan said, ‘I was delighted to have the chance to visit the Blue Cross centre in Chalfont St Peter and to learn more about everything the staff and volunteers are doing to help rehome cats and small animals.

‘Nationally the Blue Cross is doing great work, especially in putting across the message of responsible animal ownership. I am particularly pleased that they help people who cannot afford veterinary treatment for their animals through the Blue Cross animal hospital and in other ways.’

And she added: ‘I am also glad that the Blue Cross has produced a leaflet to inform people about the effect that firework noise has on animals. This is one of the issues about which constituents write regularly to me, all year round.’

The Blue Cross centre in Chalfont St Peter takes takes hundreds of unwanted cats and smaller animals such as rabbits and mice every year and finds them loving new homes.

Ms Kellie Brooks, manager of the Blue Cross in Chalfont St Peter, said: ‘To have the support of our local MP is wonderful and she really seemed to appreciate the work the Blue Cross does and loved meeting our residents.’

The Blue Cross in Chalfont St Peter currently has several cats and pet rats that need loving new homes. Those interested in rehoming an animal can visit the centre at 10 Grassington End. Telephone 01753-882560.