AN 18-year project to build new kennels for unwanted pets in Worcester has finally taken shape after the launch of a new rescue centre.

The Worcestershire Animal Rescue centre, which currently has 16 dogs, has been opened after nearly two decades of fund-raising by its nine committee members.

The committee bought the centre's six and a half-acre site in Hawthorn Lane, Newlands, near Malvern, in 1995, but has since been raising more than £200,000 to start the kennels.

Committee treasurer Jan Arpad, said the project had been started after members noticed the high level of unwanted dogs in the city and wanted to do something to help them.

"This is very precious to us," she said.

"We have spent £125,000 on getting the best kennels we could and hope to add to a veterinary surgery, cattery, staff accommodation and more kennels when we have the funds.

"Therefore we are keen to receive donations allowing us to replace money spent on wages, food and veterinary costs and build up the coffers to expand the facilities."

Alex Husband, who manages the new centre, said the kennels had taken in 29 dogs and re-homed 13 since opening. The centre currently takes in animals from owners unable to keep them due to personal circumstances but has secured a contract to take in strays on behalf of Malvern District Council.

But the 29-year-old, who worked at Tibberton's Danemere Kennels for three years, said he hoped to take in cats and other pets in the near future.

"At the moment we take in pets from failed relationships or people who cannot keep the pets for a variety of other reasons," he said.

"It is very upsetting seeing owners part with their pets, it is obviously heart-breaking for them. But through intensive vetting ensuring the pets go to the right home, we have been successful in giving some animals a loving home."

Anyone wanting to make donations to the kennels should contact Alex on 01905 831651.