The founder of a charity that helps injured and orphaned wildlife has renewed an appeal for people to help Mansfield Wildlife Rescue buy its new home.

Cheryl Martins launched a £50,000 fundraising plea in January to secure the site in Pleasley Vale, where she has been based since a devastating fire at her Mansfield Woodhouse home in 2022.

However, the appeal on gofundme.com is still many thousands of pounds short of its target.

Cheryl, who had run the charity from her home for more than 20 years before moving to the currently-leased site in Pleasley Vale, said it was a golden opportunity for the charity — but it has only until the end of June to raise the money.

The charity has more than 8,000 followers on Facebook, as well as receiving daily help from unpaid volunteers.

“As you all know we are trying to raise the funds to purchase the centre,” Cheryl said.

“I know a lot of people are struggling at the moment, but just look how many members we have — over 8,000. If every one of you just made a one-off donation of £10, we would reach well over our target for the purchase and have some for reserves.

“We desperately need to secure our future for the wildlife we protect, and to keep this little piece of our beautiful countryside safe from ever being developed.

“With your help we can do this. This is your space too, a place the community and public can enjoy.”

Mansfield Wildlife Rescue is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of sick, injured or orphan wildlife, including young deer, birds, and more.

Cheryl added: “Our rescue centre has been offered a chance to purchase the site we currently lease, providing much-needed stability for our mission. But, there’s a catch — we have to raise £50,000 for the purchase and solicitors’ fees.

“Imagine a haven where our rescued animals can thrive, safe from future developments, surrounded by the beauty of the countryside we call home.

“Your support, no matter the size, can turn this vision into reality. Your contribution will impact the lives of the animals we care for, ensuring they have a secure and protected space for the rest of their lives.”

As well as helping wild animals, the rescue centre aims to educate people about animal welfare and to release recovered wildlife back into their natural habitat.

To make a donation to the appeal go to www.gofundme.com and search for Mansfield Wildlife Rescue. Supporters can also donate via PayPal to [email protected]