An animal charity established more than half a century ago is in crisis as a rise in the cost of living represents a triple threat to its work.

The Society for Abandoned Animals (SAA) was established by Peggy Henderson in the 1960s as a response to the urban clearance of South Manchester, which led to a significant number of homeless animals.

After some time in the Peak District, which was considered too remote, Peggy set up in between Sale and Stretford in the 1990s. The animal charity has been on the banks of the Bridgewater Canal ever since.

But a rise in the cost of living represents a triple threat to its work, in particular as it comes after the struggle associated with coronavirus.

Catriona Granger, a trustee at the SAA, said the biggest issue is an increase in demand, as owners leave an almost unprecedented number of cats and rabbits with them.

The charity used to accommodate dogs too, but it does not do so at the moment due to a change in the law.

Ms Granger told The Messenger: "They've either got them over coronavirus and realised its too much work, or the cost of living has hit them and they can't afford it."

This is compounded by an increase in bills, both for utilities and vets, and a decrease in the donations on which the SAA depends as its supporters struggle themselves.

Ms Granger said: "It's a bit of a crisis. But not just for us, as there are a lot of animal charities struggling.

"When people feel the pinch, human charities come first. But it doesn't make it any easier for our work."

Cases to illustrate the situation include a cat left with the charity that had six kittens soon after its arrival.

One kitten did not make it, but the others are alive and well in the care of the small team of staff, as well as a committed team of volunteers.

To support its work, the SAA depends on donations alone as a result of a lack of government grants.

The charity has its Autumn Fair on September 3, with all invited to attend. For information, go to saarescue.co.uk.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.