LOCAL man Andrew Smyth is pulling on his running shoes and taking to the streets of Lisburn to raise money for the 7th Heaven Animal Rescue Trust, a small animal charity dedicated to rescuing, caring for and re-homing unwanted and abandoned animals.

Andrew, who volunteers at the Trust, decided to take part in the Lisburn Fun Run on Wednesday June 18 to raise vital funds for the charity.

"We are a totally voluntary organisation with no paid staff whatsoever," explained

Andrew. "Neither do we have a central sanctuary, the animals being housed at the homes of our trustees and fosterers. With no wage bill and very few overheads, it means that the largest possible percentage of our funding directly benefits the animals in our care.

"We do not charge for our animals as we believe they are not commodities to be bought and sold but sensitive creatures that demand our respect. We do however, still cover the cost of vaccinations and neutering for all animals we re-home."

Andrew continued: "There are many ways in which you can help the charity. Donations are always gratefully received, we also collect used postage stamps, old broken gold which we can sell back to the jewellers for scrap or holding a car boot sale, fete or fun event on our behalf.

"Anyone wishing to know more about 7th Heaven or if they have any queries they can contact us by email at www.7thheaven.org.uk on contact 7th heaven by phone on 02894432229."

Ulster Star
13/06/2008