AFTER a difficult few weeks for animal rescue charity STARescue, volunteers finally had something to celebrate at a fundraising event.

The charity, run by Shirley King, was raided by the RSPCA in early November and 50 cats were taken away from her property in Monserrat Road, Popley, Basingstoke.

An RSPCA inspector said at the time that the decision to take the animals away was because “their welfare needs were not being met.”

Shirley said: “It’s been a very difficult time – it’s been a nightmare.

“It’s very hard not knowing what is going on and not knowing what is happening to the cats. There are solicitors involved at the moment, so I am not able to say too much.

“But we have to keep raising money to help the other animals we have, and that’s what we’re raising money for today.”

The charity held a fundraising event at Oakridge Hall for All. There was ferret racing, festive stalls, a disco, bouncy castle, a raffle, face painting and much more at the event, held from 3pm until 11pm.

There was also a ‘Bushtucker trial’ for brave volunteers to try out, with some truly gruesome food challenges.

Shirley, 65, said the support she has received from local people since the cats were taken away has been fantastic.

She said: “I would like to thank everyone. It seems like most people in Basingstoke are behind us, and we have had some lovely messages of support.”