MAKE helping homeless pets your cup of tea on Saturday, May 7, when the team from the Blue Cross pet charity shop in Trowbridge will be holding a Paws For Tea party at the Guide Hall in Trowbridge Park from 10.30am-4pm.

The leading pet charity, which cares for over 40,000 sick, injured and homeless pets each year, is asking animal-lovers in the Trowbridge area to get involved to help raise money for pets in need.

Visitors can pop in for homemade cakes, coffee and tasty cream teas. There will also be craft stalls selling a range of handmade gifts and jewellery, and face-painting for children.

Carol Kempster, Blue Cross Shop manager in Trowbridge, said: "Paws for Tea is a great fundraising event and it's a perfect excuse for a catch up over a cup of tea and a slice of cake. We hope lots of people will come along and join us – Blue Cross improves the lives of thousands of pets each year, and it's events like this that make it possible."

Blue Cross is also appealing to pet lovers to hold their own Paws for Tea events for friends and family.

Actress and Blue Cross ambassador Pam Ferris, says: "As the proud owner of Stan and Elsie, I know how much love and joy pets bring to our family – I wouldn't be without them. But not all pets are so lucky and that's where Blue Cross comes in.

"We all love a cup of tea and a piece of cake so why not hold a tea party for family, friends or colleagues and help raise money for this wonderful charity? Just put the kettle on and sign up now."

Every penny raised will go towards the care of the animals at Blue Cross rehoming centres and animal hospitals. To order for a free Paws For Tea host pack, full of ideas and recipes, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/teaparty or call 0300 790 9903.

Carol Kempster, Blue Cross shop manager, Trowbridge