AN animal lover has been left devastated after his sanctuary was “obliterated” in the region’s worst storm this winter.

Kevin Plummer said after discovering the destruction caused by the gale force winds at Kays Hill Animal Sanctuary, in West Auckland, this morning (Thursday, February 13) he felt he might have to seriously consider future.

But having surveyed the damage he said he cannot bring himself to give up on the 300 animals on the site, especially since the closure of Rainbow Ark Animal Sanctuary, in Willington, last month.

“I have never known a storm like it,” said Mr Plummer. “It sounded like a train coming through the place.

“I tried to go out there but there were things flying all over the place. It was mayhem. Thankfully as it was night time, all the animals were inside and safe.”

The wind flattened numerous fences, damaged roofs, pulled down drain pipes, took doors off hinges and snapped branches off trees.

Mr Plummer added: “This recession has affected us so much and we have only just recovered from bad weather a few months ago.

“The site has been obliterated. It is going to cost hundreds of pounds to repair all the damage and we don’t have it. People rallied round me last time but I just can’t keep it going on my own. The hurdles just keep getting bigger.”

Anyone able to help Kays Hill Animal Sanctuary should contact Mr Plummer on 01388-834996 or 07960087605.