A record 20,000 complaints of animal cruelty were investigated last year by the region's RSPCA inspectors.

The startlingly high figure, which is double that for many parts of the country, is revealed in a report compiled by regional manager Alan Wolinski.

The document will be presented at the annual meeting of the RSPCA's local branch later this month.

Mr Wolinski says a campaign has successfully raised public awareness of animal welfare issues, which he feels are now a high priority for many people in the region.

He adds: "Our ability to deal with this unprecedented rise in investigations was helped by the appointment of 10 animal collection officers (ACOs) last August.

"The ACOs, who work a shift system to rescue and collect animals, have provided a much-needed boost to inspectors and allowed them to spend more time investigating complaints.

"While we are detecting as much cruelty as ever in our region - securing over a quarter of all convictions nationally - the number of court cases and convictions for animal cruelty is down on last year's figures.

"This is due in no small part to the hard work of our staff and volunteers, who campaign tirelessly against cruelty and encourage responsible attitudes towards animals."

In her annual report, branch chairman Rosemary Vere says 35 dogs and 70 cats have been rehomed in the past year and all were neutered and vaccinated by the RSPCA.

She pays tribute to all who have supported the work locally of the charity.

The Keighley auxiliary reports a good year, although the fundraising target of £10,000 was not achieved.

TV star Chris Tarrant is leading a search for any animal loving heroes in Keighley.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare is running the Animal action awards which will be presented to people who have done something outstanding for animals.

Local people are being called on to nominate anyone they know by writing to the IFAW Animal Action Week's office explaining why their nominee deserves to win.

They should include their name, address and telephone as well as those for the person nominated.

Entries should be addressed to: Animal Action Awards, 186 High Street, Rochester, Kent ME1 1EY.

Closing date for receipt of entries is August 31, 2000.

For an action pack giving all details call 01634 830888, or write to the address above.

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