AN animal organisation is launching its Christmas appeal, following an exceptionally busy year.

Okehampton and District Cats' Protection is seeing at least one incidence a month of cats being abandoned in the area, and the demand for places in the branch's cat sanctuary has also increased dramatically.

This is in parallel with the charity's national figures, which has seen reports of stray cats or calls from people wanting to give up their cats increase by a third since 2009.

Pat Sawyer, branch co-ordinator, said: 'The last year or so has had a tremendous effect on all charities, including our own. This year, we have decided not to ask for cash — although donations will not be turned away — but we are asking people for cat food donations.

'Many of us who are cat owners know that in every box of food you buy, there are two or three flavours that your dear cat will turn its nose up at. Therefore, we have lots of unopened cat food taking up cupboard space and we can't think what to do with it. The answer is that we can use it.

'By donating it to us we can then spend the money that we save on vet bills, equipment and towards new pens.'

The organisation has drop-off bins at Okeford Vets in both Okehampton and Chagford, the Big Pet Superstore on School Way, Mole Avon, and North Park Vets both in Okehampton and North Tawton.

Pat said: 'These collection bins have been in place for quite a time, and of late donations of food have been dropping off.

'So, at this time, please empty your cupboards of unwanted cat food to to make more space for your Christmas goodies, and drop it into our bins.

'Even if it's only one or two pouches it will make a difference.'