“SPARE a thought for the animals in our care and all our staff who will be working right through Christmas.”

That’s the message from the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary over the festive period.

The centre in Stadhampton cares for animals who have found themselves without a home.

But the centre has reached full capacity, and although its workers say they will not give up on a pet, there are problems finding enough space.

Chairman Debbie Heath said: “This year we are having an exceptionally bad time at the sanctuary with all the dogs and cats being brought to our doors.

“And the bad weather only adds to our problems. Like everywhere else, it is very difficult for staff to get to work, and often they find problems once they are there.”

The centre is currently caring for 92 dogs, 130 cats, two ponies, three goats, six sheep and hundreds of rabbits and guinea pigs.

There will be 16 staff working over Christmas to continue that work.

Mrs Heath said: “Our shop manageress at Witney and her support staff have collected nearly £500 to allow us to buy treats and special food for Christmas for all the animals in our care.

“We are extremely grateful for all their support and everyone who gave us extra donations.

Each year, the sanctuary takes in 500 unwanted, sick or injured animals.

It was saved from closure last year when the Oxford Mail supported an appeal to raise thousands of pounds.

Last Christmas, its long-term future was secured when former supporter Vivian Kirk left his four-bedroom Jericho home to the sanctuary in his will. It raised £452,500 at auction.

Mrs Heath added: “Please spare a thought for the animals in our care and all our staff who will be working right through Christmas.

“If you decide that you would like to adopt a dog, cat or rabbit from us in the new year, please give us a ring.

“We will be very happy for you to make an appointment and have a look at all of our animals.

We have some very loveable inmates just waiting for a loving owner.”

Warden Maggie Whalley said: “We are having a few problems with staff getting in because of the flu going round, but all the staff will be trying their best to care for the animals over the festive period.

“There have been a lot of cats being brought to us this year, but we’re not sure why.

“Marriage break-ups are one of the major causes.

“So we are having a lot of trouble homing cats because so many are coming in, but we aim never to turn away an animal.”

The sanctuary can be contacted on 01865 890305 or 01865 890239.