THE Mayhew Animal Home is looking for big-hearted animal lovers to join its pool of generous volunteers. To celebrate national volunteers week, which started yesterday, the Mayhew hopes hundreds more will happily roll up their sleeves and help with the

THE Mayhew Animal Home is looking for big-hearted animal lovers to join its pool of generous volunteers.

To celebrate national volunteers' week, which started yesterday, the Mayhew hopes hundreds more will happily roll up their sleeves and help with the sanctuary's wonderful menagerie of furry creatures.

The Mayhew's 150 volunteers carry out a range of duties including manning the reception phones, hands-on animal care, walking the dogs, cuddling the cats and helping at fundraising events.

Judy Edwards and Joan Dixon have manned the very busy reception desk every Monday since 1981.

Both gave up their time free for more than 25 years making them two of The Mayhew's longest volunteers.

In addition to providing the Mayhew with their hard-working skills, both adopted a few animals during the years.

Mrs Edwards said: "I thoroughly enjoy helping out at the home and would recommend volunteering at The Mayhew to anyone interested in helping animals in need."

Caroline Yates, Mayhew chief executive officer, said: "Our volunteers are very much valued here. We wouldn't be able to help as many animals as we do without their assistance.

"Their generosity means we can carry out our home visits for potential adopters, help care for our animals in the home and also even take some of them into their homes for foster care.

"A huge thank you to all our wonderful volunteers!"

If you are interested in volunteering you can call the Mayhew on 020 8969 0178 or visit www.mayhewanimalhome.org