An animal charity says it is struggling to remain operational amid falling donations and an increasing number of people unable to afford to keep their pets.

Ilkley-based West Yorkshire Animals in Need (WYAIN) is calling on people to get involved, and support its fundraising Christmas raffle, as the prolonged economic downturn continues to hit the cause.

WYAIN’s Tommi Townsend said: “We are struggling to remain operational as we see donations plummet and more animals need our help as people can’t afford to keep their pets.”

A recent pet photograph competition organised by the charity enables it to buy two incubators which have already come to the rescue of two sick hedgehogs.

The charity is selling tickets for its Christmas raffle, with prizes including a desktop computer, hair styling vouchers, and a beauty pack.