A Burnley cafe owner has joined the race against time to save a charity kennel for abused and abandoned dogs in Burnley, Pendle, and the Ribble Valley from closing down.

Gemma Fisher, who owns Cafe at the Corner in Boot Way in the town centre, is donating all proceeds from the sale of her home-made cakes and treats to the campaign to keep the RSPCA’s Lancashire East branch at Huncoat open.

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A self funded, independently run, branch of the RSPCA that has been on the site since the 1970s, the charity is financially struggling due to a downturn in gifts left in wills, and an increase in utility and veterinary bills, National Insurance contributions, and the minimum wage.

Gemma Fisher, the owner of Burnley's Cafe On The Corner, has joined the campaign to save a charity shelter for dogs in Burnley, Pendle and the Ribble Valley. She is donating all proceeds from the sale of her home-made cakes and bakes to the fund to save it

Passionate animal lover Gemma, who has raised £50 so far, said: “Many people don’t realise the branch is independent and they rely solely on the good will of the public. They do a fantastic job so I want to do all I can to keep them open.”

Along with the cakes, Gemma is also selling a selection of pre-loved soft toys and other items. At Christmas she held an appeal for festive treats for dogs at the charity as part of its shoebox appeal.

Gemma added: “I would like to thank my customers for their continued support, it’s all down to their kindness and generosity that I am able to support this charity, that means a lot to me.”

The charity has been drawing down on its reserves for a number of years, but it’s not sustainable longer term, and it is currently looking at a deficit of around £180,000 by the end of 2026. It is now havint to consider mothballing the kennel accommodation and moving entirely to an expanded fostering and foster-to-adopt system.

Gemma pictured with some of home-made cakes and pre-loved teddies she is selling to help raise funds to save an animal shelter she supports that is threatened with closure

Since the shock announcement the community has rallied with donations and fund raising events. The charity has also set up a justgiving page and a Safe Haven project where supporters can make regular monthly donations. The campaign runs until the end of March when a decision will be made on the future of the charity.