Hundreds of animals facing eviction
2:02am Saturday 23rd February 2008
HUNDREDS of rescued animals could be made homeless if the sanctuary that took them in is forced to close.
Paula Campbell, owner of Rainbow Ark Animal Sanctuary, in Willington, County Durham, may have to sell if she cannot resolve the home's financial difficulties.
It was hoped that money raised from the sale of land owned by Mrs Campbell's family could be used to keep the sanctuary going, but it was later discovered that the land had been overvalued.
Ms Campbell, 42, said she could not afford to keep the sanctuary going unless an alternative source of income could be found.
She looks after 214 animals with her two sons, James, 16, and Joseph, 12, on the farm her family has owned for 20 years.
She said that even though she had been contacted by several land developers who were interested in the farm, she would do everything she could to avoid selling. Ms Campbell said: "We are struggling, both financially and emotionally, and we don't know what is going to happen.
"We have 45 acres of prime development land, but I'm not going to give up without a fight."
The sanctuary is not only a haven for animals - children from the area also visit Rainbow Ark to see the dogs, Shetland ponies, canaries and goats.
Ms Campbell said: "I would rather die than leave here. I have put my heart and soul into this place."
Rainbow Ark Animal Sanctuary also has a separate area known as Durham Dales Ferret Rescue, where more than 20 ferrets are cared for.
Ms Campell has also devoted much of her time to other charities, including the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the RSPCA.
Ms Campbell has written a children's book called Norah A. Chicken and is offering some of her artwork for sale.
She is hopeful that the profits will help keep the sanctuary going.
She said: "I'm out every day promoting the book and it has been bought by Waterstones, but it is so hard to maintain that and look after all of the animals. I'm exhausted."
Norah A. Chicken can be bought online for £5.99 from penpress.co.uk