THE heroic efforts of staff at St Giles Animal Rescue have hit the headlines in recent months.

In February the Wrantage centre, working alongside the RSPCA, took in more than 30 Jack Russell-Patterdale Terrier cross dogs which had been rescued, before ensuring they were vaccinated, cared for and have now found new loving homes.

And just weeks ago, the centre also rescued and continues to care for a dog that had been living in a Taunton park for nearly a year.

These are just two examples of the work the charity carries out 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, accepting stray dogs and cats - as well as other species on occasion - from across Taunton Deane, West Somerset and South Somerset.

Now, it has been announced County Gazette editor Paul Jones will be the charity’s patron for 2018.

Animal lover Paul said he was delighted to take on the role for the next 12 months.

“The work of charities like St Giles Animal Rescue is so often overlooked, I am delighted to be able to do my bit to raise the profile – and much-needed funds – for them,” he said.

“We are a nation of animal lovers and no more so than here in Somerset, so I am determined to champion the efforts of staff and volunteers at St Giles who work tirelessly to help animals who are unable to help themselves.

“The charity is growing and needs more help to continue providing the help so desperately needed – and I am sure our readers will join me in doing all we can to make sure that happens.”

Somerset County Gazette: Paul Jones St Giles Animal Centre Rescue patron

Paul said he aims to help the charity as much as possible, giving its work much-needed publicity, as well helping boost fundraising appeals to continue the good work.

Jan Brooks, chair of trustees for St Giles Animal Rescue, said: “On behalf of myself and the trustees of St Giles Animal Rescue it gives me great pleasure to welcome Paul Jones of the County Gazette, as our Patron for 2018.

“We look forward to working with Paul in our shared goal of providing the best possible care for our stray and unwanted animals until they find their ‘forever home’.”

For more on the work of St Giles Animal Centre, visit stgilesanimalrescue.co.uk.