The founder of Mansfield Wildlife Trust is asking for a birthday present with a difference this year – donations to the charity.

Cheryl Martins who runs the rescue based in Shire Road, Pleasley Vale, is asking for donations instead of presents to mark her birthday to ensure the charity can continue to help animals in the region.

Ms Martins is hoping to raise £150 with her online Facebook fundraiser.

She posted: “For my birthday this year, I'm asking for donations to Mansfield Wildlife Rescue. I've chosen this charity because their mission means a lot to me, and I hope that you'll consider contributing as a way of celebrating with me. Every little bit will help me reach my goal.”

Cheryl Martins is the charity founder and runs Mansfield Wildlife Rescue services from its Pleasley Vale site.

placeholder image — Cheryl Martins is the charity founder and runs Mansfield Wildlife Rescue services from its Pleasley Vale site.

Volunteers at Mansfield Wildlife Rescue are working round the clock to care for animals in the region but are struggling due to lack of space, lack of funds and lack of volunteers.

Mansfield Wildlife Rescue has been operating over 20 years. Founder Cheryl Martins started the animal rehabilitation work from her home in Mansfield Woodhouse before the rescue officially relocated to its current countryside site in Pleasley Vale in 2022 following a fire at her home.

As well as visiting The Secret Garden Café open Tuesday to Sunday 10:30am to 4:30pm, residents can also support the charity by donating via direct bank transfer to Santander. Account Number: 12015061 Sort Code: 09-01-29. Name of Account: Mansfield Wildlife Rescue. You can also donate via paypal with the email address: [email protected] making cheques payable to Mansfield Wildlife Rescue.

The facility is also in need of pet food and day-to-day care items for the animals including hay, wood shavings, puppy pads, bowls, blankets and small indoor rabbit/guinea pig enclosures.

To donate to Chery’s birthday fundraiser visit https://www.facebook.com/donate/1524134022530419/4450601845170610

For a full list of items you can donate and more information visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/1664406497123506 or contact 01623 810625.