Deeping St James wildlife sanctuary, the Exotic Pet Refuge, receives donation from Nene and Welland Oddfellows

A wildlife sanctuary for exotic animals has been given a £2,500 helping hand from a community group.

The Exotic Pet Refuge, in Deeping St James, received the donation last month from the Nene and Welland Oddfellows friendship group.

The money was raised through several events, including raffles, car boot sales and indoor table top sales, while donations of bedding, towels and food have also been given.

The group has supported the wildlife sanctuary to the tune of more than £6,500 over the last few years.

Pam Mansfield founded the Exotic Pet Refuge in 1984 with her late husband, Mel, after someone came to them with an injured bird.

“We’re extremely grateful to the Oddfellows for their continued backing,” she said.

“Without help like this we wouldn’t be able to do the work we do and give these animals the most comfortable life possible.”

Pam is now helped by her son, Darren, and a small team of regular volunteers.

The money will help the Station Road site care for more than 250 creatures, including snakes, monkeys, and even a lynx.

Karen Earth, Nene and Welland Oddfellows branch secretary, said: “Our members have worked so hard throughout the year to make this donation possible, so thank-you to everyone who helped and donated.

“As well as helping people find friendship, the Oddfellows has a proud history of supporting good causes.”

The refuge held an open day on Sunday and will hold its next on Sunday, July 9. Visit their Facebook page for details or call 01778 345923.

The Oddfellows will next raise funds for the Deeping Men’s Group. They will be at the Deepings Carnival on Sunday, June 25 from 12pm, and also host a car boot sale at Glebe Park, in Market Deeping, on Saturday, July 8.

For information about the society, email Karen.Earth@oddfellows.co.uk or call 01778 342006.