An RSPCA branch "full to the brim" with cats needing significant treatment have launched a desperate appeal after one of its charity shops was raided.

Police are investigating the burglary at the store in Tankerton - in which thieves forced entry and stole all of the cash earned over the weekend.

The bars on the window were ripped off and the glass was smashed before the safe was then pulled out and prised open, leaving dust and debris all over the floor.

In total, £360 in cash was stolen from the safe - but the cost of the damage caused to the store in Tankerton Road is not yet known.

Branch director Sarah Merrington said: "We are so saddened that this has happened. As a charity we rely on donations to help us care for animals in the local area and the main way that we fund this vital work is through our charity shops, so this has a direct impact on animals.

"Not only did they take every penny in the safe from the weekend, but we also had to close for trade whilst we repaired the shop.

"However, the demand on us hasn’t stopped with calls still coming through to our branch and cats needing care all the time.

"We’re currently at full capacity with cats at our animal centre so losing these vital funds is heartbreaking."

RSPCA Canterbury, which has a cattery in Island Road, has launched a fundraising appeal to urge supporters in the community to help them raise the funds lost.

So far they have received more than £1,000 from generous supporters.

The first customer of the day even brought the staff and volunteers cakes and donated £50 on the spot when they heard what had happened.

Ms Merrington added: "We really appreciate the support of the local community. We have been so touched by people’s kind words and generous donations. We really can’t thank everybody enough for all their help."

A post shared by the branch on Facebook said they are "full to the brim with cats needing significant treatment" and the loss of takings is "literally taking care away from cats in need".

The branch is currently caring for more than 20 kittens, with 10 rescued from one property, who are all underweight, flea infested and suffering from cat flu.

Police have confirmed they are investigating the raid.

"The burglary is believed to have taken place between 5pm on Saturday and 9am on Tuesday," they said.

Inquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/227926/21, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form on their website.

To help donate to the RSPCA Canterbury branch, click here.

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