WILD Futures, the charity which runs the Monkey Sanctuary in Cornwall, is on the lookout for volunteers to help raise funds through charitable street collections during June.

No previous experience is necessary and the events will be fun and informal, providing an opportunity to meet other like-minded volunteers.

Monkey suits are available to all collectors daring enough to wear them, and Wild Futures t-shirts will be provided for those who would rather not.

A collection will take place in Tavistock on Friday, June 21. All volunteers will receive free tickets to the Monkey Sanctuary for giving up their time.

It is estimated that there are 7,000 primates being kept by private individuals in the UK today. Primates are intelligent, socially complex animals that suffer greatly in captivity, but they are currently given very little protection under UK law. Wild Futures' Monkey Sanctuary is receiving requests weekly to rescue more monkeys, signifying an escalating problem.

Wild Futures receives no government funding, and subsequently there is a growing need for funds to help rescue more monkeys and provide them with a safe environment and specialist care at the Monkey Sanctuary.

Kate Brydges, events and community fundraiser at Wild Futures, said: 'We would love to hear from anyone in the community who feels that they cold join us for these collections. Whether it is for an hour or half a day, any support will be greatly appreciated. We are in desperate need of more volunteers to help us raise funds so the Wild Futures can continue its vital work with primates in the UK and abroad.'

Many of the monkeys rescued by Wild Futures' Monkey Sanctuary will live for more than 40 years and require a lot of specialist keepers, medical and veterinary care. Without funding and donations, this essential work would not be possible.

If you would like to get involved and support Wild Futures, contact [email protected]">[email protected] or call 0844 2721271 for more information.