2023 NEWSLETTER
A welcome from the board Dear Supporters, I'd like to begin with a huge thanks to Joanne Brunt, our former Chair, who served as a trustee since December 2012 and held the position of Chair for most of that time. In January of this year, Joanne transitioned to the role of Vice Chair, and I took on the position of Chair. While Joanne’s leadership as Chair was invaluable, her presence on the Board remains immensely beneficial. The Board agreed that such changes can rejuvenate a group, bring forth diverse perspectives, and signal our commitment to the continuous development to the world outside. However, what truly matters is the work we do to enhance the lives of the many hundreds of animals that have passed through our doors. The stories outlined in these pages offer a glimpse into heart-warming successes and heart-breaking struggles. They describe just some of the animals whose welfare is our reason for 35 years of dedication and some of the events, projects, challenges and strategies we have put in place to continue to make that welfare possible. In this, our 35th year as Thornberry Animal Sanctuary, (30 of these as a registered charity), I would like you to join with the Board in celebrating all that has been achieved by TAS, by our superb staff, our dedicated volunteers and above all, by you, our loyal supporters, whom I cannot thank enough. I want to highlight an important development in the governance of Thornberry Animal Sanctuary. TAS is in the process of changing from an unincorporated charity to a CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation), the main difference being a transfer of liability for the charity’s debts from individual trustees to TAS as an entity (or ‘person’) in its own right. This will make no difference to the running of the charity, our aims and values, personnel, daily operation, or contact details etc. However the charity number will have changed by the time you read this. PLEASE NOTE: for those of you kind enough to leave TAS a legacy in your will, the new unique charity number for Thornberry Animal Jane Sara - Chair of the Board of Trustees Sanctuary is: 1205404.
Hello from our General Manager Helen Connelly As we approach the end of another remarkable year at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary, our 35th Anniversary, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared with you, our dedicated supporters. Your unwavering commitment and generosity has been the cornerstone of our success, and we are thrilled to share some of the highlights that made 2023 a truly transformative year for our sanctuary. Milestone Achievement: The Completion of Our Vet Suite One of the most significant achievements this year was the completion of our stateof-the-art Vet Suite. This facility is a gamechanger for us, equipped with a cuttingedge operating theatre, pre-op/consult room, laboratory, recovery, isolation kennels, and a dedicated X-ray room. This achievement was only made possible by legacies left by valued and loyal supporters. One of my key objectives as the General Manager of Thornberry is to ensure that we use donations, no matter how large or small, in the most effective way, and leaving a gift in your will to Thornberry enables us to improve our welfare offering and facilities. Grant Application to Pets at Home Foundation We've recently applied for a grant from the Pets at Home Foundation to fund an X-ray machine for the new Vet Suite along with Blood Machines to enable us to test animals blood onsite without sending samples to external laboratories. This crucial equipment will revolutionise our ability to diagnose underlying health issues in the animals under our care. We're eagerly awaiting a response and are optimistic that this grant will further enhance our capabilities, changing the face of many lives in rescue.
Remarkable Adoption Numbers Sadly, as predicted, we are seeing the aftermath of the Covid pandemic with animals being abandoned and relinquished by owners due to lack of time and finances. We have had so many animals left at our gates, including a litter of the cutest puppies. This year has been exceptionally busy, and we are thrilled to announce that we've successfully rehomed over 200 dogs and almost 400 cats. Additionally, more than 100 small animals found their forever homes, including rabbits, rats, and guinea pigs. We've also had the pleasure of rehoming over 20 horses and ponies, giving them a second chance and a life filled with love. Hen Rehoming Weekend Success In April, we hosted a Hen Rehoming weekend that exceeded all expectations. Thanks to your support, we secured the lives of over 600 battery hens, who now, for the first time in their lives, know what it feels like to breathe fresh air and feel the sun on their backs. Expanding Our Charity Shop Offering In our continuous efforts to support the well being of animals in need, we are delighted to announce the opening of our new charity shop at Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre in Sheffield. This expansion is not just about retail - it's about broadening our impact and creating new avenues for revenue that will directly benefit the animals under our care. The Crystal Peaks location provides a fantastic opportunity to reach more individuals who share our passion for animal welfare. By opening a shop in this vibrant shopping centre, we aim to generate vital funds for the sanctuary and further cement our presence in the local community. This means more resources to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need. We are also excited about this expansion's positive impact on our volunteer community. We understand that transportation to Thornberry has been a challenge for some of our dedicated supporters. With the new shop, we hope to overcome this barrier and invite those who have longed to support Thornberry by volunteering to join us in making the Crystal Peaks shop a resounding success.
Your support remains crucial. Whether donating items, spreading the word, or considering volunteering, your involvement makes a significant difference. Together, we can create a thriving hub of compassion and support for animals in need. As I look back on these accomplishments, I am filled with gratitude for the community that surrounds Thornberry Animal Sanctuary. Your support has transformed countless animals' lives and strengthened the bonds of compassion and empathy that connect us all. As we eagerly await the outcome of our grant application and look forward to the new year, we want to express our deepest thanks for standing by our side. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of animals in need. It showcases the collective impact we can have when we come together for a common cause. Thank you for your unwavering support. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! . Helen Connelly, General Manager
Sheffield Clean Air charge We extend our gratitude to the generous supporters who swiftly responded to the news about Thornberry's obligation to pay the £50 Clean Air Zone charge to Sheffield City Council on multiple occasions this year. Their donations covered three transportation dates for Philomena and Chester's public meet-ups on The Moor in Sheffield (13th May, 24th June, and 15th July), with an additional contribution towards the charge on 16th September. Our volunteers conduct street collections on 7 or 8 days annually, bringing two ponies and two dogs each time. The Sheffield public particularly enjoys meeting the ponies, especially children who may have never seen or interacted with one before. While we appreciate the public's donations at these collections, the £50 charge for transporting the ponies in a horse-box consumes about 10-15 percent of these proceeds. Thornberry does not hold a political stance on the Clean Air Zone - this isn't our role - and we understand that people's opinions on it vary greatly. However, some councils offer concessions: Bath charges £9 for privately owned horseboxes (ours is loaned by a volunteer); Bradford extends concessions to charities, and Portsmouth allows a free horse box pass for up to 10 days annually. Some level of concession for our relatively few annual visits doesn't seem entirely unreasonable. Nonetheless, we will continue to allow Philomena, Chester (and sometimes Dolly and Teddy) to meet our supporters and interested onlookers in urban Sheffield. Our final visit for 2023 is scheduled for December 23rd, where they will be joined by Santa. Perhaps this Christmas, our stocking will hold a concession from SCC!
Chair of the Board of Trustees Jane with Philamena (left) and Chester (right)
Pooches in the Park: A Pawsitively Perfect Day of Fun and Furry Friends Pooches in the Park, our flagship dog show sponsored by Morfitt Smith Estate Agents, proved to be a spectacular event despite the initial setback of postponement due to intense weather conditions in September. However, fortune favoured the furry, as the rescheduled event unfolded on a fantastic, unseasonably warm autumnal October day, much to the delight of both two-legged and four-legged attendees. Three Rings of Canine Excellence: This year's edition of Pooches in the Park Morfitt Smith our featured not one, not two, but three dog show event sponsors rings, creating a feast for dog lovers and enthusiasts. The rings showcased the talents and charm of our four-legged companions, with categories ranging from Best Rescue to Dog Most Like its Owner. Dogs of all shapes and sizes strutted their stuff, leaving the audience in awe of their agility, obedience, and, of course, undeniable cuteness. Sheffield Speeders Fly Ball Team Takes Flight: Adding an extra layer of excitement, the Sheffield Speeders Fly Ball Team graced Pooches in the Park with thrilling demonstrations of high-speed canine athleticism. Attendees had the unique opportunity to witness these skilled dogs in action, racing over jumps to retrieve a ball. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by both dogs and their handlers was infectious, leaving the audience in awe and admiration. Trade Stalls Galore: The event was not only a celebration of dogs but also a hub of caninerelated products and services. Forty trade stalls lined the field, offering
everything from gourmet dog treats to stylish pet accessories. Dog owners had the chance to explore a wide array of products, ensuring their furry friends left the park not just happy but also a little bit more spoiled. Sausage Race Finale: As the sun began to set on this unforgettable day, the crowd gathered for the grand finale — the Thornberry Famous Sausage Race. A light-hearted and entertaining event, the sausage race featured dogs of all shapes and sizes racing to claim the title of the fastest sausage snatcher. Laughter echoed through the park as the dogs eagerly chased the dangling sausages, bringing the day to a close on a joyous note. The event proved to be a pawsitively perfect day for dog lovers and their furry friends alike. Until next year, when Pooches in the Park promises to return with even more tail-wagging excitement!
Agility Extravaganza: Seventy-seven entrants enjoyed a fantastic time at our Dog Agility event held at Millhouses Park. For many, it was their first experience navigating jumps, tunnels, hoops, and weave poles. Both dogs and handlers appeared to relish the challenge, although some pups appeared a bit bewildered: “You want me to go through that hoop thing? Can't we just go around?” The weather was favourable for the energetic running and leaping involved. Spectators were treated to a range of performances: some dogs dashed to the obstacles upon a mere gesture from their owners, others trotted obediently alongside, and some had a blast doing their own thing, like searching for treats spilled in the grass by other participants. The agility contest comprised two rounds: a practice round at a pace to suit the dog and handler and get familiar with the obstacles and route, heights of jumps altered to suit individual dogs, and then a timed round for the chance of a prize. Times varied from over a minute to close ones like Toby and Woody at
39 seconds, Coco at 36, Mac at 34, and Ernie, Teddy, and Buddy all tying at just 33 seconds. However, Wren (with Isla) clocked a lightning-fast 26 seconds, a record held until close to the end when Stanley (with Abi) matched this amazing time! The two owners graciously agreed to share the £25 Pets at Home voucher, a heart-warming gesture after a delightful afternoon of pets and people enjoying each other's company.
2023 Best In Show
Wren with his handler Isla on the left and Stanley with Abbi on the right
Pooches In The Park 2023
Unlocking Hope: The Impact of Legacy Giving on Thornberry Animal Sanctuary As we navigate the complexities of existence, planning for the future often involves contemplating what we leave behind. At Thornberry Animal Sanctuary, the transformative power of bequests from our cherished supporters has not only been felt but seen in the bricks and mortar of our improved facilities. The Power of a Will: Beyond the Inheritance Crafting a will is a profound act of foresight and care. It is a testament to our values, extending beyond the material realm to shape the world we leave for others. Beyond providing for loved ones, a will allows individuals to contribute to causes close to their hearts, leaving a lasting impact on the organisations that work tirelessly to make the world a better place. Thornberry's Journey: Turning Legacy into Lifelong Care In recent years, Thornberry Animal Sanctuary has been the beneficiary of such forward-thinking generosity. Legacies left by our valued supporters have played a pivotal role in propelling Thornberry to new heights. Some of the tangible results of this support are the completion of our state-of-the-art Café, Carpark and most recently Vet Suite — a beacon of hope and healing for animals . in need. The Tangible Impact on Facilities Families who have chosen to include Thornberry Animal Sanctuary in their wills have witnessed the tangible benefits of their loved one's generosity. The improved facilities stand as living proof of the impact that a carefully considered gift can have on an organisation dedicated to the well-being of animals. The Vet Suite, made possible by legacy giving, is not just a building; it is a symbol of compassion, hope, and progress. Animals in our care now receive enhanced medical attention, thanks to the capabilities provided by this facility.
leted Vet Our comp s which wa Building er Septemb in d e h is fin and thank you ig b A . 3 2 20 aw to Whitsh well done Builders!
Free Will-Writing Assistance: Turning Compassion into Action Understanding the importance of legacy giving, Thornberry Animal Sanctuary is pleased to offer free will-writing assistance through Tierneys Solicitors, based at Dinnington and Wickersley. This service aims to simplify the process of including Thornberry in wills, ensuring that supporters' wishes are clearly articulated and legally binding. By partnering with Tierneys Solicitors, we hope to encourage more individuals to consider the impact they can make through legacy giving. It's a seamless way to contribute to the well-being of animals while securing a lasting legacy of compassion. Closing Thoughts: A Future Shaped by Compassion In the dance of life, the steps we take today influence the rhythm of tomorrow. Through legacy giving, individuals become choreographers of change, orchestrating a future where the well-being of animals is at the forefront. Thornberry Animal Sanctuary stands as a living testament to the profound impact of such generosity, and we invite you to join us in shaping a future where every creature has a chance for a better life. To explore the possibility of leaving a lasting legacy for animals in need, contact Tierneys Solicitors Quoting TAS for free will-writing assistance and embark on a journey of compassion that transcends generations. Together, we can turn hope into a reality and leave an indelible mark on the world we leave behind.
Everyone should have a will As Solicitors practising in will writing, you might expect us to say that, but it is also straightforward common sense. We all have different lives, but most of us will leave something, big or small, behind when we die. We will all have wishes about who should inherit this and why. The only way to be sure our wishes are followed is to put them in writing. A Will gives you the chance to decide on executors and beneficiaries. Your executors are the people you trust to sort out your estate; selling property, closing bank accounts and dealing with legalities. This can be a complex and stressful job, at a very difficult time. You may not want to leave it in just anyone’s hands. Your beneficiaries are the people you choose to inherit. You might think these are obvious and their inheritance automatic, but unfortunately this is often not true. If you do not have a Will, your estate will be divided according to default rules passed by Parliament in 1925. These are rules for a different time; they often do not suit the modern family or safeguard their best interests. Even if your family and affairs are straightforward, a Will enables your executors to deal with matters quickly and easily. If there is no Will, your close family can face a long wait and legal process to deal with your estate. Finally, a will also gives you the chance to remember other people and causes dear to you, and take advantage of tax reliefs you may otherwise miss out on. Gifts to registered charities are exempt from inheritance tax and can do tremendous good whatever the amount. Decide to leave a legacy to Thornberry Animal Sanctuary and they will cover the cost of a simple single or joint will here at Tierneys. You can get your affairs in order and do your bit to ensure the Sanctuary stays thriving and sustainable for many years to come. Do get in touch to find out more. Zachary Collingham, Director & Solicitor | Tierneys Solicitors.
A message from our Vet Team We are thrilled to share some wonderful news with you. Thanks to your support and generosity, Thornberry has expanded and upgraded our veterinary facilities to better serve the animals in our care. Our new facilities have been modernised and extended to include a specialised surgical suite to perform vital surgeries, a separate isolation room to house animals that may be contagious, a kennel block for our hospitalised patients, a state-of-the-art imaging suite, and a comfortable consult room and spacious reception area. All fitted with air conditioning to ensure maximum comfort for our patients. These new facilities are a game changer for us. This was a complex project that everyone at Thornberry embraced wholeheartedly. Since the vet team started in 2021, we have noticed a significant increase in the number of animals needing our care – with more and more people struggling to make ends meet, the Sanctuary has provided a life line to the animals that need us, and as a consequence, the vet team are busier than ever! This means we have faced new and challenging cases, but thankfully with our new vet building, we can offer a wider range of treatment options and surgeries that we were not able to do before. One of our small patients was lovely Willow, the Guinea Pig. We were concerned her abdomen was very enlarged. An ultrasound confirmed the presence of two huge ovarian cysts inside her abdomen. The risk of the surgery and the anaesthetic was high, but we knew we had to proceed to make Willow more comfortable. She proved to be a tough little pig!
Willow s uccessfu lly recovere d and wa s even eat ing some o f her favo urite veggies w ithin an hour of w aking up !
Another brave patient of ours was McGonagall. Upon arrival it was clear she was suffering with a severe skin condition, affecting her neck and ears – she was so itchy and sore. After a long course of treatment and lots of dedicated care from the vet and cattery team, she was very patient with us and eventually her skin healed and she has even grown all her fur back!
This year has also seen an increase in the number of brachycephalic dogs (dogs with flat faces), particularly French Bulldogs and British Bulldogs. These dogs suffer from obstructed airways and often find it difficult to breathe. Ordinarily, these dogs would need a costly referral to an external veterinary practice, but thanks to our new facilities and ever-expanding knowledge we can now perform the surgery in-house. We have successfully improved the breathing for several dogs already, using surgical techniques such as rhinoplasty which widens the nostrils, and staphylectomy which shortens the soft palate inside the mouth, thereby freeing up the airway. These have been very rewarding cases as it dramatically improves the quality of life, almost instantly. We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support. Together we are making a difference in the lives of countless animals in need. Thank you for being part of our journey, and for helping us create a brighter future for the animals we cherish. With warm regards, Ana and Beth
A huge hello from the Thornberry Kennel Team! 2023 has proven to be my busiest yet as Kennel Manager, and I cannot quite believe what I am writing, but we have rehomed more than 235 dogs already this year– and estimate to be around 260+ by the year-end. The increase in demand for help has contributed to these figures, with the cost of living and people giving up dogs they impulsively purchased through the Covid pandemic. As a Manager, I could not be prouder of my amazing team who have really gone above and beyond to ensure these dogs have found their loving forever families. Heartbreakingly we recently lost the cover star of our 2022 newsletter: Noah. He originally came to Thornberry after his owner had passed away and another national charity had helped rehome the other two dogs in the household, but wouldn’t take Noah due to him having epilepsy and other medical conditions, which meant he was reliant on medication. Despite the cost and the around-the-clock care Noah would need, Thornberry didn’t hesitate to help. Thornberry became Noah’s sanctuary and he lived out his life with myself and my dogs. He had such a unique bark and was such a loving and gentle dog, often used as a stooge for nervous and unsocialised dogs that needed a confident companion to help show them the way. This Year like every year has brought some unique stories and reflecting back, I’m reminded that we really do achieve some incredible things. From a challenging Christmas Day C-section, to puppies abandoned at our gates, huge milestones in rehoming numbers, and untold amounts of emergency intakes, it’s really difficult to choose what to write!
Supporters will remember Misha’s story…. A beautiful senior Lhasa Apso who was taken into emergency surgery less than one hour after entering our care. Misha had been well loved, but sadly her previous owner’s ill health left her infected eyes untreated for some time, thus leaving her blind and also in incredible pain. Both myself and Keeley (Kennel Lead) assisted with the complex eye surgery, and are still shocked at the quick recovery and resilience by the most special little girl who was back on her feet and eating shortly after the operation. Misha (right) now lives in her palliative care home with her new Mum Maureen and her 4 legged brother Dexter (left) – to see her so loved and happy feels like an indescribable achievement. As we anticipate the New Year, significant changes await the Thornberry Kennel Team. In February, I'll be temporarily stepping away to welcome my new baby daughter. I am confident in the continued dedication of our team and incredible volunteers who will carry on the mission of helping countless animals in the months to come. To our wonderful adopters of 2023, your open hearts and homes have made a world of difference for Thornberry dogs. We extend our deepest thanks. To those considering rehoming from us in 2024, we eagerly anticipate meeting you and adding to the Thornberry family. Here's to the successes of 2023, the challenges overcome, and the promise of an even brighter future in the New Year.
Zoe - Kennel Manager
Hello from the Cattery Team! What a year has 2023 been? Full of ups and downs of course! Sanctuary life can be physically and mentally demanding. We work out of hours and around the clock to ensure the cats in our care receive the very best care that they truly deserve. This summer, we had a relinquishment of a very heavily pregnant Winnie. She was a beautiful girl who had a difficult time. She showed significant signs of distress whilst in labour, which at 4pm one afternoon we had to make the decision to perform an emergency caesarean section to help save her life. Our WHOLE Thornberry team (including the veterinary, cattery, kennel, reception and retail teams) were involved and helped resuscitate the 9 kittens after hours. Winnie is now spayed so she hasn’t got to go through such an ordeal again and is living in a lovely new home with lots of home comforts and cuddles that she truly deserves. It’s thanks to all members of our Thornberry team that she made it through. We celebrate the adoptions of our ‘long stayers’ Benny (153 days at TAS) & Skittles (208 days at TAS). These lovely boys took a very long time to adjust to sanctuary life and it reflected in their temperamental behaviours. After time, dedication and TLC from our very patient staff and volunteers, we managed to win these lovely boys over and boy did we celebrate when they got adopted and joined their new families, where they have settled well and rule the roost! We constantly juggle unplanned events here at Thornberry, from Luna’s kittens being born on Halloween, to the unplanned arrival of Triton & Neptune who had been found in a canal, to the joys of dealing with the flood, kindly left behind by storm Babet (All cats now dry, safe and warm with the cattery back into action, luckily with minimal damage!).
As 2023 rolls to an end in the cattery here at Thornberry, we look back at what we feel was a very successful year. Myself, Beth, Bella & Tiger have now had a full year together, and what a difference we have seen. Last year I pledged to exceed 300 cat adoptions. That is a massive 300 cats into new, loving and safe homes. We, as a team, have in fact rehomed 335 cats so far (and we are only at the beginning of November), so we hope to exceed 360 cat adoptions by the end of the year! I could not be more proud of my team (Beth & Bella our AMAZING Cattery Carers) and what we have achieved! I could not be more grateful for our consistent and dedicated volunteers (Ann, Ben, Joel, Jane, Angela, Pat, Helen, Tamzin, Joanne, Lynda, Isobelle, Katie, Maddie & Gabby) and fosterers (Judith, Katie, Amanda & Aleisha) because without them, we could not have placed the 335 cats into their new homes. We genuinely thank you for your generous support. Courtney & The Cattery Team (+Tiger).
Hello from The Small Animal Team! Our small animals range from rabbits to guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils, hamsters to rats. Such a wide variety of species, not forgetting the occasional reptile, amphibian and bird to throw into the mix. Our smalls are as important to us as any other domestic animal in Thornberry’s care. This year has been a significantly challenging one… we face a really daunting problem where the ratio of animals relinquished : animals adopted really do not mirror, meaning the length of stay for our small animals in the sanctuary is longer than the average dog and cat. We are faced with daily battles of abandonment and neglect. In the summer we were surprised to find a carrier of 6 baby bunnies left in our car park. Thankfully they were left on our premises where we could seek the appropriate care and attention they needed. We celebrate the fact that all six found some lovely homes, with one bunny being a Pet Therapy bunny! We also had the lovely Heidi who was brought in as a stray in an awful condition. She had significant wounds on her back, her coat, skin, and body condition were very poor and as a team we were extremely concerned about her health and well being and worried about what sort of future she may have. After a massive 88 days in our care, she found the most amazing home she could possibly have dreamt of! She truly deserves the very best and that is what we found her! She was later joined by another Thornberry friend Gary, and the pair are settling in very well. Despite slow movements in the small animal area of Thornberry, we can only aim to increase the number of adoptions in 2024, aiming to exceed 80 rabbit adoptions and 20 guinea pig adoptions. Until then, we pride ourselves on providing the very best for the small animals in our care, ensuring they receive the love, cuddles, grooming and enrichment they all truly deserve. We can only achieve what we do thanks to our very dedicated small animal volunteers (Jayne, Jane, Janet, Sadie, Bradley, Sammy, Helen & Katie) and we cannot thank them enough, because without them we couldn’t achieve what we do. We are genuinely very grateful for all your help and support.
Welcome from the Equine Centre, ‘Farm’ This year as ever has seen changes and developments and although the charitable world of animal rescue is never easy, these have all been positive. We gained two excellent new members of staff. These were to replace Sue, our joint manager, who moved to Scotland to be near her new grand-daughter, and Lynne, who has achieved her dream of a smallholding of her own, where she can keep her horses at home for the first time. Our newcomers are, firstly, Alyson, who joined us in January as Deputy Manager. She has a wealth of experience and qualifications, just one being the BHS A1. Her warmth and compassion extend to both animals and people and although she has a modest personality, has lots of sound business sense and good ideas with which to support Thornberry into the future. Rosie joined us just part time but her input in those hours has been invaluable. She is also BHS qualified (Stage 2) with considerable experience in charge of show-jumping yards and elsewhere. We are fortunate in our staff, who work with dedication to ensure our horses, ponies and other farm animals get the treatment and care they need and the future homes that are right for them. As well as our staff, we have a small band of stalwart volunteers at the farm, who know the ropes well, and whose help is essential to us. We welcome volunteers, but horses are unpredictable and we need to ensure the safety of all who work with them.
The very best volunteers are experienced enough to handle potentially difficult horses but humble enough not to assume their expertise is greater than it is. They are willing to take advice for their own safety, or, alternatively to be glad to contribute in more mundane ways where the risks are lower. Such help is equally valuable. Above all, our best volunteers are consistent in the time that they give us, building up a body of knowledge and experience upon which we can rely. We appreciate people’s interest in helping us and certainly hope to retain and reward those who do give of their time, as ours do. Occasionally, a corporate group of volunteers step in for a day to help with specific, one-off tasks. Pictured here is a group from GXO on 7th September who got stuck into a range of jobs including scrubbing out and disinfecting some stables. It came as a bit of a shock to them just how powerful the scent of ammonia can be! Still, they did not complain about the lack of glamour; they were a group of angels. Indeed, one of them was even called Gabriel! Supporting our staff - our tractor We gained a number of grants to acquire a tractor, complete with its safety cab of course. Three of our staff members received their LANTRA training awards from Morton Training Ltd, after a gruelling two day training session on site in June. A generous supporter, Laura Bates, donated a massive £2000 so that we could buy a trailer to maximise use of the tractor. We extend a huge ‘thank you’ to Laura.
We are a rescue and rehoming centre; why do we have some permanent residents? The best future we can provide for each of the horses, ponies and farm animals who come through our gates is with a loving, knowledgeable person or family who provides a permanent home. That way, not only does each animal get the life he or she deserves and needs but we have the space to continue to take in animals in desperate need of the same care – we never want to have to say that there is no room at the inn. We do keep some space for a few permanent residents, however – those, for example, who are too frail or too elderly to cope with a change of situation . One horse, also, though not ill, has behavioural issues which make him a potential risk to people; he is looked after only by those staff who know him well and whom he knows and trusts. There is also a small band of Shetland ponies whom we keep as our ambassadors; we see them as additional members of the team! Dolly (17yrs) Teddy (18yrs) and Mr G (9yrs ) came in with a serious health issue – laminitis. This is an inflammation of the tissues inside the foot, which causes acute pain and can permanently cripple the pony. It needs rigorous management but with this care, all three are pain-free. Their job is to meet the public at our events and help to fund-raise; the picture shows Dolly and Teddy sharing a hay net on The Moor in Sheffield on a street collection in July. Their calm, placid personalities make them easy-going – they don’t mind being surrounded by interested children, patting and stroking a pony perhaps for the first time. Teddy may look like butter won’t melt in his mouth but he has a mischievous side; he has learnt to undo stable doors, and though Dolly is the boss, you can see that she is happy- just- to share a haynet with him, maybe because it is her door Teddy undoes to let her out when no-one is looking!
Our other animals Our goats and the pigs continue to do well, Crespo and Chops at 5 years old being the youngest pigs and Fred still going strong at almost 12 years old with his 9 year old pal Tilly. The intelligence of pigs is well known but Crespo likes to remind us humans of this when she waits until a wheelbarrow is full before upending it. You can almost hear her laughing! We like to be thorough when matching animals for adoption to an adoptive home; it is a careful process – not a quick fix- and success is a happy permanent home. We are pleased with our rehoming figures so far this year. We have re-homed 28 Horses, 2 Goats, 1 Pig, 8 Ferrets, 7 Ducks, and 28 Chickens. Thank you to everyone who adopts a rescued animal when considering acquiring a pet. You are helping to reduce the suffering of animals and to discourage the overbreeding of animals whose future is not secure. Thank you also to all of you who support our events – this year we held a bustling summer fair on our fields at Ravenfield, open days, and a horse show at Parklands, sponsored by numerous kind local businesses. Look out for next year’s events. We have a tack shop also at our equine site selling donated items and held a walk-in two day sale with BARGAINS galore. We can usually arrange an appointment to browse our range of equine goodies: rugs, tack and more. Thornberry Animal Sanctuary Equine Centre
Meet Keely... We would like to welcome Keely our new Volunteer Coordinator. Keely supports our volunteers, whilst also managing our corporate volunteer days and enrichment days. Volunteering is a crucial part of the everyday functions of Thornberry, therefore Keely’s work is vital and she is a great new asset to our team! I joined Thornberry in May 2023 after working in care for 12 years, specifically managing care companies. I decided I wanted to change jobs after wanting a better work life balance and wanting a new challenge. I have known about Thornberry for the past 8 years and I have even adopted some of my horses/ponies from the equine centre, so I have always appreciated the work Thornberry does to helps its animals. I noticed one day that Thornberry was advertising for the role of a Volunteer Coordinator, and instantly thought with my previous job skills I could be great for the job. Now here I am! I use my skills and knowledge to help other staff members and volunteers on an everyday basis, whilst giving mental health guidance/advice, which is extremely important in any work place and also ensures that all of our volunteers feel like they have somebody to talk to. I also work with corporate companies on their corporate volunteer days, planning and creating activities and jobs for them around our site to help our staff members. Here at Thornberry our volunteers play such a key role towards the functions of the day to day life here the the Sanctuary and we appreciate the dedication from each of our volunteers.
Paws and Purpose: The Impact of Volunteering at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary Volunteering is a powerful force that not only transforms the lives of individuals but also adds immeasurable value to organisations dedicated to making a difference. At Thornberry Animal Sanctuary, the spirit of volunteerism is at the heart of our mission, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both our sanctuary and the dedicated individuals who choose to give their time and energy. Thornberry Animal Sanctuary opens its doors and hearts to volunteers aged 16 and above, recognising that compassion and a willingness to contribute know no age limits. Whether you're a teenager seeking to make a positive impact or someone with decades of life experience, there's a place for you in our community of volunteers.
Fundraising volunteer at our Halloween event who raised over £100!
Opportunities Abound in Charity Shops and Donation Barn: One of the key avenues for volunteering at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary lies in our charity shops and donation barn. These vital spaces serve as the lifeblood of our organisation, supporting the care and well-being of the animals under our protection. Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of these spaces, from organising and displaying items in our charity shops to managing incoming donations in our donation barn. Every hour spent helping in our charity shops or donation barn translates into support for the sanctuary's rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming efforts.
Volunteering provides a platform for individuals to hone existing skills and develop new ones. Whether it's customer service, organisational skills, or teamwork, the experiences gained at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary are not just fulfilling but also professionally enriching. Additionally, volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and community. At Thornberry, our volunteers become part of a compassionate and likeminded group dedicated to a common cause. The relationships formed while working together create a support network that extends beyond the volunteer experience. Furthermore, the act of giving back has a profound impact on personal growth. Volunteers often discover hidden talents, strengths, and a sense of purpose that extends beyond their time at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary. Getting involved is as easy as reaching out to our volunteer coordinator, Keely. Whether you're an individual looking to make a difference or a group seeking a meaningful team-building experience, there's a place for you at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
Workers from SSB law who volunteered and helped us prepare for our Halloween event
Goodbye from Ged... Writing this feels slightly surreal, but this will be my final piece for Thornberry Animal Sanctuary. Since joining in June 2009, I have been responsible for writing grants, press releases, fundraising stories, running events, developing partnerships, bringing our IT and technology into the 21st century and so much more. On joining Thornberry, I joined a team in the midst of change and direction and under the new leadership of Helen Connelly. Helen set out her vision to me, and over the last four to five years, we have worked closely together, striving towards achieving some of the many goals that were set. Changes at the sanctuary and farm have included the building of a state-of-the-art vet room, a dog exercise area, a home-from-home room, a new and modern café, a dog grooming bath and dryer, redeveloping the car park and entrance, the purchase of vehicles including a tractor and much more. We have also secured the funding to extend our cattery, and we are awaiting to hear back from a bid for an X-ray machine and blood analysis machine, which will further cement Thornberry as a leading animal rescue centre. All these projects have been done to improve animal welfare or make the charity sustainable in an ever-changing world. While these projects may be the jewel in the fundraising crown, the day-today work helps the sanctuary survive, and it is you, the supporters, that enable it to do that and thrive. I have loved seeing the posts, comments and donations and hearing about why Thornberry has a special place in your heart. While I am pleased to have played a part in helping to move these projects forward, I am just a cog in the wheel. All the staff at Thornberry work extremely hard to deliver the utmost in animal
welfare, and every animal is treated with kindness, compassion, and love. Seeing how much the team cares about their roles is admirable, and I am grateful to have worked alongside some brilliant and inspiring people. Along with the help that Thornberry gives animals, it is worth noting that it also does a lot of amazing work with vulnerable individuals. Whether that’s people with special educational need or additional needs, older people, young people looking for academic placements or people out of work looking to get the experience they need. Thornberry is a real hub of the community. When I reflect on my time, it is one full of daily and weekly challenges but also one filled with laughter and smiles It really has been a journey and while my four and a half years at Thornberry are but a speck of its 35. year history, I am proud to have played a role in it. Thank you to Helen, the Trustees and all my colleagues, past and present, the volunteers and all our supporters who have made Thornberry such a fantastic place to work. I look forward to seeing the charity continue to grow, helping more animals and people as it always has and always will.
Best wishes, Ged Jenkins-Omar Fundraising Manager
Hello from the fundraising team! As Thornberry continues to grow we would like to extend a warm welcome our new Events Coordinator, Heather Bonser to the Thornberry Family. Fresh out of university, after studying Events and Business Management Heather is ready to help us grow and develop our events, she’ll be bringing fresh and innovative ideas to help Thornberry progress to the next level. We also welcome our new Marketing Coordinator, Abi Revill to the team. Abi studied Events Management with Experiential Marketing at University and is equipped to bring new insights into the world of marketing and assist us in the success and growth of Thornberry.
Heather During my time at university, I studied events in the third sector and knew it was an industry I would love to work in. While studying, I worked in a pet store, seeing animals on a daily basis. Being able to combine the two seemed unlikely for me; therefore, I'm super grateful to be in this role. I hope to bring a new perspective and new ideas to Thornberry to enable the charity to grow and provide the everneeded care for the animals.
Abi After studying at University it was important for me to find a job which had purpose and true meaning. I have always loved animals since I was a toddler and to find myself in a job role which I am passionate about makes the job even better. I am looking forward to bringing my creativity to Thornberry and help watch the charity grow through my assistance with future projects.
Fundraising - Alton Towers Half Marathon & 5K Throughout the year, many of our supporters have taken on various challenges, including half marathons, to fundraise to help our animals in need. It was only fair that our Thornberry team and some of our volunteers did the same! Colm, Jack, and Ged decided to run the half marathon, while the rest of the team took on the 5k. Despite the weather not being quite on our side for this event, everyone took it in their stride, quite literally, and finished the race. There were some very sore legs the next day! Each team member worked hard to fundraise, and in total everyone who ran raised an amazing total of £3370. This money will support each of the animals brought to us, providing them with a safe place to sleep, nutritious food, and the chance to find their new forever homes. Every donation, big or small, is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to continuing our fundraising efforts next year with plenty more challenges! A huge thank you to everyone who donated and supported our team through contributions. We'd also like to express our gratitude and congratulations to our supporters who participated in half marathons and other challenges throughout the last year and raised money to support Thornberry.
Celebrating 35 Anniversary Ball
Remarkable
Years:
Thornberry's
What an unforgettable night! Thornberry Animal Sanctuary's 35th Anniversary Ball was an evening we’d all been waiting to celebrate all year! Our cherished supporters, volunteers, staff, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the great 35 years of achievements. Laughter, conversations, and the spirit of giving filled the air, setting the tone for a remarkable evening. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this celebration a huge success and thank every attendee for purchasing a ticket and joining us. The festivities kicked off with a delicious 3-course meal that delighted our taste buds. Live music by Paul Pashley set the perfect ambiance, filling the room with melodies that lifted spirits and inspired many to hit the dance floor. The highlight of the night was not just the glamour but the generosity displayed by our incredible supporters. The silent auction was a great success, offering a wide variety of items, and there was some bidding competition, which helped us raise substantial funds that will directly benefit the animals in our care. As we reflect on the journey of the past 35 years, we're inspired by the lasting impact we've collectively made. The success of this event reaffirms our dedication to helping vulnerable animals and we will continue to host events to help support the future and growth of Thornberry Animal Sanctuary.
This year we have celebrated our 35th Anniversary and this newsletter is a capsule of the hard-work, stories and dedication from our team over the past year. Thank you to each and everyone of our supporters who continue to show their love and appreciation, allowing us to support and care for neglected and vulnerable animals. As the year ends, we reflect upon each of the challenges we have faced, but equally focus on each of Thornberry’s achievements. The challenges have been tough from the cost of living, to the increase of relinquished animals, to the flooding on site. These challenging experiences have pushed us to our limits, but with the support from our incredible supporters and volunteers we got through. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you - our supporters, volunteers, and friends. Your dedication to Thornberry has made a profound impact to the lives of so many animals in their time of need. As we step into a brand new year filled with new opportunities and growth, we continue to support animals in finding their forever homes and giving them a second chance in life. Thank you for being a part of Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
Charity Number: 1205404 Thornberry Animal Sanctuary The Stables, Todwick Rd, North Anston, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S25 3SE