RSPCA seeks new home for 70 animals rescued in Bexhill

The charity went into action on Christmas eve after the animals were found living in poor conditions with a family who were unable to care for them properly.

Three dogs, 25 cats, 30 birds and two rats were removed from the house during the afternoon.

They were taken to the RSPCA Patcham animal centre near Brighton where staff worked until late evening to get them fed and comfortable on arrival.

RSPCA Sussex Chief Inspector Patrick Hamby said:"We received a call from someone concerned about the animals and when we arrived we found out that the owners were disabled and unable to look after them.

"We are treating this as a welfare issue and not looking to prosecute the owners."

The RSPCA is now looking for new homes for the animals.

The dogs are a Staffordshire bull terrier, a Jack Russell and a Yorkshire terrier.The birds include budgies, love birds and chickens.

Patcham animal centre manager Jenny Wells said: "We are hoping that people will come forward and offer homes to our festive arrivals. We are also appealing for food for the dogs and cats so if anyone would like to donate some we would be very grateful."

Anyone interested in offering a home to the animals or to donate food can visit them at Patcham animal centre off the A23 near Brighton. The centre can be contacted on 01273 554218.