Founder Cheryl Martins said the former council plant nursery, on Shire Road, Pleasley Vale, is an ideal location for rescuing and rehabilitating Mansfield’s wildlife.
Cheryl had previously operated the rescue centre from her home on Brown Avenue in Mansfield Woodhouse for more than 20 years – and said she is thrilled to finally have a centre for rescued animals and volunteers to call home.
Cheryl sadly lost everything in a fire at her home in May – her three pet dogs, kitten and parrots died from smoke inhalation as a result of the electrical fire.
She said the loss is still hard and it feels strange being at home without her pets, but that the new centre has helped her cope in recent months and given her something positive to focus on.
She said: “It’s been a lifelong dream to get this centre up and running, 30 years in the making.
“Five years of fighting to get it and now we’re finally here and it’s absolutely fantastic.
“The community support we’ve had has been brilliant.
“I’m just looking forward to welcoming people here to see what we’ve actually achieved.
“This is a peaceful and relaxing place.
“We want this to be a space where people can feel comfortable.”
Cheryl said with all being well, the Pleasley site and its planned community café will open to the public next year, serving as a community hub for walkers and residents.
The centre currently has provided work placements for a number of students on the level three animal care course at Mansfield’s West Nottinghamshire college.
Cheryl said she hopes to create even more opportunities for students with catering roles, landscaping, and volunteering positions potentially in the pipeline as work on the site continues.
Charlotte White, aged 17, started volunteering at Mansfield Wildlife Rescue back in April.
She said: "I've enjoyed every second I've been here and I've learned so much and it's all thanks to Cheryl."
And Cheryl has a Christmas fundraising fair planned at the new centre set for Saturday, December 17, from 2-7pm.
With 25 stalls booked in for the day and a Santa’s grotto for children to enjoy, Cheryl said she hopes to bring in the community for a sneak peek of the centre.
Anyone interested in volunteering at the centre or wanting to donate is advised to call Cheryl at 01623 810625, or email [email protected]
2. In the heart of Pleasley Vale
Cheryl has big plans for the new centre. Photo: Brian Eyre
3. Community support
Cheryl Martins with Coun John Coxhead. Cheryl thanked John for his fundraising efforts and support. Photo: Brian Eyre
4. Caring for a hedgehog
Charlotte White and Kai Booth are Level 3 animal care students from Vision West Notts. Photo: Brian Eyre