We are celebrating the official launch of our new kennels. Our previous kennels were extremely dilapidated, crumbling and more than 30 years old.

The new state-of-the-art kennels definitely have the seal of approval, and our rescuees are far cosier and more relaxed.

Holly Hedge now boasts a sensory garden and plenty of green space for the animals to explore, and the animals are enjoying the upgrade.

The three long-stay rooms with their own little fenced in area are a great success too, and the dogs in there seem far more content, enjoying their home comforts, especially their sofas and armchairs.

There are also six large gardens, incorporating a sensory garden so our dogs can enjoy recreational time away from the kennels as well as walks in the woods.

Our wonderful Patron, friend and BBC presenter Monty Halls – who once adopted a dog from Holly Hedge for his television show Great Escape – was on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Mr Halls said Holly Hedge is ‘an extraordinary place run by extraordinary people’.

He added: “Without Holly Hedge many other beautiful dogs and cats would have gone to an early grave.

“Holly Hedge never puts a healthy animal to sleep. Some animals stay with them for years before they find a permanent home.

“It’s the sanctuary that never gives up on a dog or cat. This independent charity receives no funding and depends on the generosity of its supporters.”