Independent Cumbrian businesses are aiding Eden Animal Rescue by selling handmade charity greetings cards.

The cards, sold at various locations from cafes and pet shops to vets surgeries, are designed by Eden Animal Rescue Trustee and fundraiser, Jennie Whitfield.

Ms Whitfield said: “We are so grateful to the businesses who stock my cards, as every penny raised goes directly to Eden Animal Rescue.

"Appleby Pet Shop is one of more than a dozen places which now sell our charity cards, and we are also grateful to the owner Suzanne for making a donation of pet food at Christmas and raffle prizes.”

Shop owner Suzanne Jones took ownership of the Market Arcade pet shop at the entrance to Appleby Public Hall last year.

Since coming to the helm, she has been a staunch supporter of Eden Animal Rescue.

She said: “I have had the privilege of meeting some of the dogs who have been rehomed by Eden Animal Rescue.

"They come in with their owners and it is so wonderful to see them happy, and loved by their new family.

“A number of my customers are former Eden Animal Rescue dogs and cats too.

“I want to help the charity as much as possible and I am a dropping off point for donations.

"Jennie’s cards are popular with our customers, and I know how much work she puts into making each one individually.”

At present, the charity has an ongoing challenge of raising £500,000 to construct new kennels at its base at Moorlands Head Farm near Penrith.

Chris Cheetham, chair of Eden Animal Rescue, pointed out that business' backing is creating a vital difference to the charity and the animals it supports.

He said: “We are very grateful to the businesses who stock our charity cards, and we appreciate how many hours of work Jennie puts into making them – and also running stalls selling thousands of her cards in the towns across the area.

“Every penny is needed to care for the animals day to day needs as well as building the new kennel block.”

The Eden Animal Rescue charity cards can be purchased from their branches in Kirkby Stephen and Penrith.

Businesses selling the cards include; Appleby Pet Shop, Orton Scar Café, Askham Village Store, Brough One Stop Shop, Newcastle Building Society, Sharmans at Glenridding, Riverside Café Appleby, Eden River Café Appleby, Three Crowns Café Penrith, Appleby Vets.