AN animal sanctuary near Bromsgrove, currently recovering from a blaze which destroyed its fundraising stock, has been hit again by thieves who stole donations.

The Farm Animal Sanctuary, in Stoney Lane, had stock at its charity shop in Rubery ruined or smoke damaged in a blaze earlier this month. All cash from the shop was used to feed and care for dozens of animals.

But last Wednesday afternoon, while sanctuary co-founder Maureen Lawless, was out collecting a donation in Linthurst Road, her car was stolen. It was later found by the Lickey Hills, but a £20 note and £50 cheque had been stolen.

Maureen said: "I just couldn't believe it. I was at a house picking up some donations so was only yards away from the vehicle. Police believe it was an opportunist who took it. When it was found the bags of unwanted goods were still there but the cash for the animals was gone."

She added: "I can't believe our bad luck at the moment. I'm hoping this is the end to it."

The Advertiser/Messenger appeal to help the dozens of animals at the sanctuary has been a massive success to date.

So far kindhearted readers have donated more than £300 and have dropped off dozens of bags filled with unwanted goods at our High Street offices and the Farm Animal Sanctuary, in Stoney Lane.

A teacher and some pupils from St Andrew's First School, in Barnt Green, also visited the sanctuary yesterday (Tuesday) to drop off £175.06 which children raised by having a non-unifrom day.

Maureen said: "People have been so kind and generous to us. It really does give you a boost.

"We still need clothes, especially bags of rags which we can sell on quickly to get money straight away."

The rescue group can get £2 for rags which pays for one bale of hay.

Farm Animal Sanctuary rescues sick and abused farm animals and gives them veterinary treatment and a permanent home.

Donations can be dropped off at the sanctuary in Stoney Lane, or at the Advertiser/Messenger offices at 5 High Street, Bromsgrove. Items can be collected by calling Maureen on 01527 870613.