Monmouthshire Building Society has named All Creatures Great & Small as its latest Charity of the Year, with the aim to raise as much money as possible for the Cwmbran-based animal sanctuary which helps rehabilitate and re-home injured, abused, unwanted and orphaned animals.

All Creatures Great and Small was founded in 1992 and, since its inception, has helped thousands of animals gain a second chance at a new life, free from fear, abuse or neglect.

It aims to rehome dogs, cats and other animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits, and also allows other animals that can’t be rehomed, such as pigs, goats, ducks and horses to live out their lives in a peaceful, safe and secure environment.

The annual running costs of the sanctuary amount to £250,000 and the team of dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly towards a better quality of life for all animals, doing whatever they can to help them avoid any pain or unnecessary suffering. It also relies on public donations of blankets, sheets, towels, cat and dog food.

Newport-based MBS’s 180 staff are determined to support the various fundraising campaigns taking place, as well as developing additional events which have been scheduled across the next 12 months.

Chief executive James Bawa said: “As a regional building society, it’s important to actively support our local communities, and it’s refreshing to partner up with a grassroots organisation such as All Creatures for this year long programme of events. With costs rising annually, and a seemingly endless number of animals who have been neglected or abandoned, every single penny counts and will have a lasting impact on the many animals who have thankfully been taken into their care.

“The charity was chosen by our own staff members who were inspired by reports in the local press regarding the difficult financial situation All Creatures had found themselves in during the previous year. It’s heart-warming to know that so many animals have been given a second chance at a life with new owners, not to mention the other animals who remain with them on their nine acre farm, and we can’t wait to get to work raising as much money as possible to help in some way towards their services continuing for many years to come.”

Matt Nicholls, of the charity, said: “We’re delighted to be the society’s Charity of the Year 2017, and I would like to thank their staff members in advance for their support which is essential for us to continue our essential services for animals in need.

“We receive no support from the government, so our work wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of the public. I’m excited to see what MBS plans for the year ahead and I’ll also be keeping my eyes peeled to see if any of our animals find themselves a forever home with any society staff members!”