Monmouthshire Building Society has presented a local animal sanctuary with a cheque for more than £9,000, following a range of fundraising activities by colleagues.

All Creatures Great and Small, located in Llanfrechfa, has been providing shelter to neglected, abused and abandoned animals for more than 20 years, has more than 100 ‘residents’ animals, ranging from cats and dogs to ducks, chickens and guinea pigs.

The society announced in May 2017 that All Creatures Great and Small would be its Charity of the Year for 2017/18. Since then, society colleagues have held a range of fundraisers, ranging from bake sales, themed food and sporting events, and, most recently, colleagues taking part in the ABP Newport Wales Marathon and 10k. Events organised by society colleagues raised £9520.00.

The society’s chief executive officer Will Carroll said: “As a mutual building society it’s important to support local charities and organisations, and hopefully the funds raised by the society can go some way to supporting the sanctuary with running costs and care for all its residents.

“All Creatures Great and Small was chosen by society staff, and have been overwhelmed by the passion and commitment shown by all colleagues during fundraising activities fully justifies the choice made to support the sanctuary.”

The society has also supported the sanctuary with large donations of food, bedding and toys throughout the year. Donations of bric-a-brac, clothing and other small items were also made to the sanctuary’s four charity shops, which are manned solely by volunteers.

Rachel Day, the sanctuary’s fundraising officer, said: “"All Creatures Great and Small receives no government funding, therefore we are dependent on the generosity of our supporters, our local community and organisations. Monmouthshire Building Society have been incredible over the past year raising much needed funds for our charity.

"The society’s staff have been so dedicated in their fundraising activities, which has proved invaluable to our sanctuary. All Trustees, Staff and Volunteers at All Creatures Great and Small would like to extend their gratitude to Monmouthshire Building Society and we are proud to have been selected as their Charity of the Year in 2017."