AN animal loving administrator has been volunteering at an animal sanctuary to help keep furry and feathered friends out of the slaughterhouse.

Charlotte Southwood has been giving up time each week to work as a volunteer caring for rescue animals at Pear Tree Farm Animal Sanctuary.

The small family-run non-profit organisation, located just outside Wells, saves animals who were otherwise going to the slaughterhouse or whose owners can no longer take care of them anymore, giving them a second chance at happy lives.

With over 100 animals on the farm their menagerie includes sheep, horses, pigs, chickens, ferrets, goats, and a turkey.

Charlotte said: “This experience has been eye-opening, seeing the awful start these animals have in life and the condition in which they come to the sanctuary. However, it has also been extremely fulfilling knowing that I am making a positive difference to making those lives better.

“I really enjoy going to the sanctuary to help out as I am a massive lover of all animals. Each animal has such a unique personality and I feel so lucky to be able to experience building bonds with each individual.

“I help out by feeding and watering the animals, cleaning out the barns, giving them love and attention and keeping them all entertained!

“The family that run the sanctuary are truly amazing and inspiring people, doing such incredible work.”

Bex, a manager from Pear Tree Farm Animal Sanctuary, said: “We absolutely love having passionate, kind people like Charlotte as part of our team. We honestly couldn’t do the work we do without the help and generosity of amazing volunteers, and we are very grateful indeed.

“We do regular chicken saves from commercial egg farms and find them forever homes within the community. People can contact us for more information on adoption.”

During National Volunteer Week which ran from June 1-7, Charlotte’s employers, housing association LiveWest, celebrated their volunteering team members by sharing their stories of how they have gone above and beyond in their local communities.

LiveWest has a programme of volunteer activities for colleagues to make a difference in their community. For more information, visit www.livewest.co.uk.

For more information on what Pear Tree Farm Animal Sanctuary do and the animals currently looking for a new home, visit www.ptfanimalsanctuary.org.