AN animal rescue service in Basingstoke has been recognised for its great work after winning an award at this year's Animal Star Awards.

Thanks to help from the public, Helping Dogs and Cats' new community shop, which includes an animal foodbank, opened its doors on Saturday, October 7 in Feathers Lane in the town centre. 

The Animal Star Awards were created in 2016 to give recognition to animals and humans alike for the extraordinary things that they do for one another.

Helping Dogs and Cats won the Cat Rescue of the Year award at Animal Star Awards 2023 during a ceremony held on Saturday, November 11 in Portsmouth at the Royal Maritime Hotel and Club.

READ MORE: Helping Dogs and Cats rescue centre moves into new premises

Basingstoke Gazette: Helping Dogs and Cats win at the Animal Star Awards 2023

Speaking about the win, founder Kirsty Wrightson said: "We got highly commended last year so we went really expecting the same thing. It was abstolutely amazing to win because it just shows people appreciate the work we are doing and the animals we are helping. 

"We hope that winning the award will also help to raise more awareness about what we do."

As previously reported, the non-profit animal rescue was based at Hart House, in Priestly Road, but needed a new premises with more space.

The rescue operates in Berkshire, Hampshire, Kent and Surrey, rescuing dogs, cats and other small animals. Its work includes rehoming and rehabilitation, veterinary care, microchipping, spraying and neutering. 

The shelter was offered a premises in a Basingstoke shopping centre and was desperately looking to raise funds to pay six-month rent, along with vet bills. 

However, Kirsty said that because of higher demand, the community interest company (CIC) was forced to find somewhere else.

SEE ALSO: Helping Dogs and Cats owner confirms move to new premises

It appealed for help to transform the new site, which was in poor condition and needed painting, shelving and new flooring. 

The shop officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Councillor David Leeks, Basingstoke's mayor.

Kirsty said: "The opening day was really busy, we had a fabulous day I hope we managed to reach out to more customers. I am so proud of our team."

During the first day of opening £930 was raised, some of which will be used to help pay for a French Bulldog's ear surgery. 

The public can visit the shop to learn more about how Helping Dogs and Cats is making a positive impact in Basingstoke.