A HAMPSHIRE animal shelter has thanked a construction company for carrying out vital repair work.

The Stubbington Ark, based near Fareham, is one of the largest branches in the country and care for more than 3,000 animals a year.

But extra costs can put a strain on its stretched budget and construction firm Amey has helped out by completing £6,000 of work including tree cutting, repairing pathways, and clearing drainage ditches.

A Stubbington Ark spokeswoman said: "These necessary but sometimes expensive upkeep costs can often be difficult to fundraise for us because understandably most people would rather the money they donate was spent directly on caring for the animals.

"This 'in kind' support has a real and tangible value and is saving the Ark a considerable amount of money, which therefore means more of the budget can be spent on what matters most - animal care and rehoming."