Allerton Cat Rescue is desperate for funds and facing possible closure with a large debt, it has emerged.

Now the sanctuary is "appealing to all animal lovers" to help.

The centre has had to close its doors to new arrivals as it is "overrun with unwanted cats and kittens."

The sanctuary said it was trying its best to help but with caring for 200 animals many of which are kept in foster homes, just could not afford to take any more.

Brenda Satterley, who has run the cat centre for 40 years, said: "My phone is going all day long with unwanted cats.

"People get angry with us when I say we cannot help."

"I feels all alone in the city. Where are all the animal lovers?"

Yorkshire ranks second highest in the country for animal cruelty convictions and many animals reach the shelter in a bad condition. The rescue centre is also urging pet owners to get their cats neutered to avoid unwanted kittens. Mrs Satterley said she couldn't understand why pet owners didn't get their cats neutered and that the centre could offer advice on where and how it could be done.

Allerton Cat Rescue relies on donations and fundraising in the form of tombolas and bric a brac stalls. Morrisons helps by having food donation stations.

Anyone who wants to donate to Allerton Cat Rescue can send a cheque, payable to Allerton Cat Rescue, 258 Allerton Road, Allerton, Bradford BD15 7QX or visit them online at www.bradfordcatrescue.co.uk