AN animal sanctuary hopes to find unwanted cats a new home for Christmas while marking the festive period with the launch of a new CD.

The Rainbow Ark Animal Sanctuary in Willington, County Durham, has 44 cats and owner Paula Campbell said they are eager to find new homes.

Ms Campbell is also marking the countdown to Christmas with a series of events starting with the launch of a new CD featuring three Christmas songs sung by her and her animals.

The countdown will take place on the sanctuary’s new website and Ms Campbell said the aim is to get everyone in the mood for Christmas.

She said: “We are all in a recession together and I am just trying to do something to make people smile and give them hope.

“Many people seem to have forgotten the true meaning of Christmas which is to love each other.”

Ms Campbell also urged any cat lovers looking for a new feline friend to get in touch.

She said: “It would be lovely to give them all new homes, but if we can just see one rehomed before Christmas I will be happy.

“Everybody loves kittens, but the adult cats deserve a good home as well.”

For more information visit rainbowarkanimalsanctuary.co.uk