VOLUNTEERS from the RSPCA's East Norfolk branch were treated to some festive cheer this week with celebrations of their hard work and dedication observed at the charity's clinic in Great Yarmouth.

VOLUNTEERS from the RSPCA's East Norfolk branch were treated to some festive cheer this week with celebrations of their hard work and dedication observed at the charity's clinic in Great Yarmouth.

The group, spearheaded by branch manager Debra Cook, enjoyed traditional mince pies and Christmas cakes whilst catching up with some old, and new, faces. The branch raises funds within their district for the services they offer to local animals.

For this reason, RSPCA Branch Development Advisor Judith Garvey commended the volunteer-run charity shop in Caister Road. The shop provides a major source of income enabling the organisation to run a veterinary clinic that supports owners on means tested benefits with professional medical care for their pets.

Clinic manager Vi Ramsey was thrilled to announce that the Clinic, in Tar Works Road, had assisted over 1,300 pets in 2009.

Debra Cook, in post for only five weeks, said: “I am already looking for premises to house another charity shop alongside some fundraising events such as the RSPCA Week in April and a sponsored dog walk in Acle in May. My future goal is to open a rehoming centre here in the Great Yarmouth area.”

The branch is desperate for new volunteers to assist either at the shop, the clinic or with events. Contact Debra on 07927000466 for further information or log on to www.rspcaeastnorfolk.co.uk for details.

The picture shows, from left: D Brown, Debra Cook, Ann Footer, Judith Garvey, Vi Ramsey, Lindsay Crowther and Jennie Ruskin.