I don’t know where to begin with the story of this unbelievable woman Andrea and her husband Kevin who have put their lives on hold to create this charity. Initially for the rescue of donkeys and other equines, incorporating dogs and other small animals along the way. In Spain there is very little support for abandoned and injured animals and no such thing as Battersea Dogs Home or the RSPCA, or other essential services that currently provide for animals in the UK. In the main animal charities are set up by expats who are appalled by the lack of care for thousands of animals. It is a tough game and a never ending job of pleading, asking, begging for money and donations in order for these charities to exist. AAR has been running for approximately 10 years and currently has around 40 donkeys in their care, along with dogs, rabbits, sheep, guinea pigs, pigs, parrots, and foxes to name but a few, who have received the special AAR treatment. These animals live very happily in the care of Andrea,, but, this is a mammoth task for both Andrea and Kevin and the time has come to expand and move the charity forward. The aim is to open an Animal Sanctuary called The Henrietta Sanctuary, named this as she was the first donkey that Andrea rescued in Spain. Sadly she is no longer with us, but her legacy lives on and inspires AAR to create this Sanctuary, The aim is to buy a piece of land with plenty of space for the donkeys, dogs and other animals to thrive and where possible be rehomed. This happens now, but, sadly they have outgrown the current premises and need more land. We hope to be able to open The Henrietta Sanctuary to the public, have open days and events, fund raisers and an information centre where maybe groups and families can come and learn how to care for animals properly.

Matt my son is 24 and currently at University he has had a life long love of sport, watching and participating at varying levels. He is taking part in the Cambridge Half Marathon on the 4th March. I suggested that he run in aid of a charity and without any hesitation said he would for Andrea's Animal Rescue in Spain. I have worked with this charity for almost 5 years, in the main working in one of the 2 shops but also other supporting roles.

This is a massive goal for Matt too, as less than a year ago he suffered a devastating injury to his knee which required major surgery and the future was looking pretty bleak for him with regard to sport. He was told his chance of playing competitive sport was unlikely. Roll on 11 months and with his determination, refusal to accept this prognosis and a shed load of physio and rehab, now finds himself able to take part in this half marathon and has recently started playing football. From the words of his consultant his recovery has been 'incredible'.

If you could find it in your hearts to sponsor him for this very worthwhile cause and then please share, share, share with all your friends, family, colleagues, Tweet, Snap, Instagram, Facebook sharing and any other way you can think of we will be able to reach our first target sooner and make this dream a reality.

Below are a selection of before and after photographs of some of the animals that have been through AAR care and a selection of other photos to give you an idea of what we are up against! We NEED your help. THANK YOU