AN animal sanctuary has eased the pressure on a fellow rescue centre by taking in some of its animals.

Farplace Animal Rescue, in Westgate, Weardale, has residents ranging from Lulu, a large white pig, to stick insects, chinchillas, turkeys, pigeons and a Siberian goat.

So there were no ruffled feathers when they were asked to take on more from the family-run Duncton Cottage Bird and Animal Sanctuary, in Rookhope.

The sanctuary felt its three sheep and ferrets would be better running around Farplace's two-and-a-half acres. It also means Duncton can concentrate on its speciality, helping birds and wild animals to get better.

"We do work in tandem," said Duncton's manager, Nigel Robson.

"We both have our area of expertise and we help each other out."

Farplace helped out when a deluge of kittens meant Duncton was under extreme pressure to pay for rising feed bills. It launched a successful emergency appeal for cat food, which eased the burden.

Mr Robson said: "The kittens were in a terrible condition and it did put a heck of a strain on our resources."

Farplace takes every animal except dogs and cats, and as the majority are unsuitable for pets they spend most of their life at the centre.

Jan Edwards, of Farplace, said: "Most animals we take have been abused, and have psychological problems and wouldn't fit into a family situation."

Duncton is looking for a home for two black kittens, one girl, one boy. To make a donation, or for more information, contact Duncton on (01388) 517005, or Farplace, on (01388) 517397.