SIR,

Precious is one of the many kittens that needed urgent help from Gwent Cats Protection this year and we were able to achieve a wonderful outcome for her and hundreds of other cats and kittens, but we could not have done this without the help of so many.

I would like to thank the Beacon for it's unstinting support by publicising our fundraising events, Adoption Days and special stories throughout 2011.

Without publicity, we could not continue to help all the people who ring our helpline annually and the huge number of unwanted cats in our area and beyond.

We are very grateful to the kind cat lovers who have adopted our beautiful cats and kittens and given them a second chance of a happy life; all those who have taken time to attend our events and helped to raise funds for food, litter and the huge veterinary bills that we incur; and everyone who has generously donated money, food, bric-a-brac, bedding, prizes and refreshments.

Our hope is that in 2012, cat owners will help us further by having their cats neutered, so that together, we can reduce the increasing number of unwanted kittens in the future.

Cats Protection neutering vouchers are available to anyone on benefits, low income or pensions and are accepted by every veterinary practice throughout Gwent.

To apply for one or more vouchers, please ring our dedicated Neutering Line on 01495 772181.

There are still many cats out there needing our help and I hope that your support will continue, so that they may have a brighter future.

If you would like to adopt a cat or kitten or help in any way, please ring us on 0845 371 2747. Cats of all ages, now available for re-homing, can be seen on our website cats.org.uk/gwent-branch

Thank you so much for any contribution you have made and a Happy New Year from us all.

Loretta Kedward

(Gwent Cats Protection)