AN animal charity is hopeful of realising its dream of setting up a sanctuary following a flood of donations.

The sanctuary appeal, being run by Saltburn Animal Rescue Association (Sara) hopes to raise £300,000 to build and run a facility for the whole of east Cleveland and beyond.

In just two years, the group has raised £47,000 with the help of local people. Now its chairwoman and re-homing officer, Ann Prosser, believes its goal is in sight.

"At first, the idea of having a sanctuary was just a dream, but now we are moving steadily towards it," she said.

"I don't know how long it will take, but I feel we're on our way thanks to the public's and media's support."

Earlier this month, the appeal was boosted by a £6,000 donation from an anonymous benefactor.

Ms Prosser said she was hopeful of securing more funds from organisations.

"We have started to apply to some trusts for help in bigger ways, although we still don't have anything in writing," she said.

She said a number of options for the sanctuary, including buying and converting a farm and building it from scratch are being looked at.

Anyone wishing to make a donation, foster animals or provide transport, can contact Sara on (01287) 623872.