A CAT crisis has forced an animal sanctuary to re-open its doors to potential pet owners.

Foot and mouth restrictions closed Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, Edenfield, in February, dealing a hammer blow to the centre's income and ability to find good homes for pets in care.

But with animals in need still coming in, the number of cats and kittens has risen to 256 -- 100 more than optimum, taking facilities to breaking point.

"We simply haven't the space to take in any more and with more cats desperate for our help and waiting to come in, the situation is critical," said centre manager Neil Martin.

Now the sanctuary, the largest in the North West, has decided to re-open its doors to potential owners -- but it will be by appointment only and visitors will have to take disinfectant precautions before they are allowed through the gates at the Turn centre.

Said Neil: "We have got lots of cats, including 50 kittens, ready, vaccinated and fit and well, just waiting for good owners."

He added the extra cost of housing so many additional animals was also taking its toll on the centre's already stretched finances.

The closure to the public means there are no longer the 300-400 visitors who normally pop in each week, often bringing with them donations and cafe and shop income.

The sanctuary announced recently it was trying to win MAFF permission to re-open on a more permanent basis.

Anyone interested in an appointment to visit the Bleakholt sanctuary should call 01706 822577.