KIND-hearted Wyre Forest residents are being urged to open their arms and their homes to some of the district's most needy animals.

Staff at Forest Cat Welfare are searching for new families for a host of stray and abandoned cats and kittens in their care. The Kidderminster-based centre is currently looking after around 40 cats.

Adele Liggitt, from the centre, said it was common at this time of the year for it to experience an influx of kittens but the group wanted people to come forward to offer the cats stability and love, preferably in a home away from a main road.

Those willing would first have a home visit and a donation would also be required to enable the group to continue its work helping other cats. For further information, call 01562 634427.

Three German shepherds, being looked after by Forest Dog Rescue, are also in need of care and attention. They were found separately in Kidderminster. It is believed all three, which were suffering from malnutrition, had been neglected.

Tizzy, a year-old bitch, was rescued last month with severe muscle wastage and did not like being touched. Volunteer, Mary Braim, said: "She is now doing well, gaining confidence and will make a lovely pet."

Alice, an 18-month-old bitch, described as " very loving", was also found last month, with muscle wastage and a collar starting to dig into the flesh around her neck, causing her great discomfort.

Flynn, a two-year-old dog, was rescued two weeks ago. It is thought he had been kept in a cage too small for him, causing his paws to become deformed and damaging his legs.

He also had an over-shot jaw and needed a raised food bowl to help him eat.

As Flynn, described as "playful and energetic", was a young dog, the damage to his legs and paws would correct over time.

Mrs Braim said: "It is distressing that these dogs have been abandoned in this way but now they will have a chance of having a secure and caring home."

For further information, contact Wendy Watts on 01562 636535 or Gareth, at Lem Hill Kennels, on 01299 269499.