Panto star visits RSPCA open day

2:54pm Monday 12th May 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

Pantomime hero Billy Pearce welcomed visitors to an animal rescue centre in Bradford.

Hundreds of families popped into the Mount Street branch of the RSPCA for a behind-the-scenes open day yesterday.

Billy, who is honorary president of the charity, joined staff at the centre to sign autographs and pose for group pictures.

There were cake stalls, a cafe and a tombola and staff advised people on how to care for pets. It was also a chance to raise money to support animals awaiting new homes.

At the moment the centre has 69 rescued dogs, 103 cats and 63 other animals such as ferrets, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Jackie Provis, a trustee of the branch, was grateful of Billy's support.

She said: "It was excellent, the children loved him. They remembered him from the Alhambra.

"Our open days are events where everyone can bring their children and see what we do. We try to get across the importance of being a responsible owner and picking up dog dirt."

• Start or join a debate on this issue in our online forum - Click here