A CEFNEITHIN animal rescue centre has received a cash boost thanks to staff at major utilities firm.

Many Tears Animal Rescue received the money after Wales & West Utilities staff bought and sold raffle tickets to raise cash for the centre which is supported by voluntary donations alone.

The money raised was matched by the firm, taking the total to £650.

The company has supported the centre for many years after staff member Kirsty Contreras-Stacey first visited the shelter with her mother Sandie in 2013 to adopt an ex-breeding Shih-Tzu.

Kirsty said: “Many Tears is extremely close to my heart.

“When we first visited to adopt our Shih-Tzu, Gracie, I was shocked at the condition of some dogs that come into the shelter, it was heart-wrenching.

“We have adopted three more ex-breeding dogs, Ellie, Seska and Daisy, and the support, love and care this small charity provides is just amazing.

“I cannot thank them enough for what they do and will continue to support in any way possible.”

Sylvia van Atta, who set up Many Tears with her husband Bill in 2004, said: “Most of the dogs we collect are on death row. If we didn’t take them they would be killed – it’s as simple as that. It sounds terrible, but it’s the truth.

“We don’t receive any official support and are thrilled when we receive generous donations such as this from Wales & West Utilities. This money will go a long way to helping us care for the 2,500 dogs that we take in each year.”