A Wirral mum set up her own animal sanctuary to care for more than 100 animals - without any official funding.
Whitegate Animal Sanctuary is a volunteer-led project that cares for animals who have been saved from neglect, abandonment or death in the meat, dairy or egg industries. It was founded by Laura Whelan and her two young sons, after experiencing dramatic professional changes in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.
Despite no official funding, and relying purely on donations and the passion and commitment of volunteers, Whitegate Animal Sanctuary has just celebrated its fourth birthday. It was originally based in Brimstage, but moved to Hoylake when Laura lost her holiday dog care business due to people not vacationing during the pandemic.