The Isle of Wight’s cat rehoming centre in Ryde is celebrating 65 years of helping moggies-in-need with a fun-filled open day.
On Saturday 13th June, Cats Protection Isle of Wight Cat Centre at 122 Marlborough Road in Ryde will open its doors to the public for a day of fun and memories from 11:00-15:00 in honour of the milestone.
The centre began its work with homeless and unwanted cats in February 1961 and the day will be punctuated with nods to the much-loved decade.
Jo Morrison, deputy manager at the centre, says:
“We’ll be playing 60s music, manager Mel and I will be dressing up in 60s fashion and there will be a display of history and facts about 1961. We will reflect on the centre’s development as it grew from its early days as little more than sheds!
“It began life known as the Isle of Wight Memorial Home, then became the Isle of Wight Branch in the 70s, before it became Ryde Shelter in the late 80s, then the Isle of Wight Shelter, the Isle of Wight Adoption Centre and now the cat centre that it is today. So much has changed and we’re very proud to be celebrating.”
The open day will feature games, a raffle, a bottle tombola, a children’s spin the wheel, a ‘kid’s corner’, face painting, tea and cakes, adoptable teddies and awards for cats. There will also be the opportunity to take a tour of the centre and see some of the cats in care.
Fellow animal charities will be joining the celebrations including RSPCA Isle of Wight, Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Monkey Haven, Ability Dogs 4 Young People and Friends of the Animals.
The centre will also reveal the winners of its Dream Cat Competition, which is open to all school-age children until 10th June. All entries will be displayed at the open day and the overall winner will receive a family ticket for Tapnell Farm, with prizes in each of the three categories.
Jo adds:
“This is going to a brilliant day with fun for all ages, plenty of cat-themed activities and of course the chance to look around the cattery. We can’t wait to see our supporters from over the years and hear tales of how cats we’ve homed have gone on to live wonderful lives.”
