AN animal assisted intervention charity near St Columb Major is in need of donations to remain open.

Chy Lowen Alpcas at Tregaswith provides a form of therapy to help young people who have special needs, mental health issues or are youth offenders.

Mary Harvey, who runs CHAT, said: “We are an Animal Assisted Interventions Project established 17 years ago, using our alpacas, llamas and ponies therapeutically.

“Our essential insurance costs £210 per month and currently we only have enough funds in the CHAT bank account to cover April, May and June 2024.

“We need 12 local businesses to sponsor one month's insurance; in return they may be able to use our animals for publicity.

“Our animals love visiting new places, especially Sparkles the Unicorn.

“Without help we will have to close CHAT at the end of June 2024 .

“We'll keep our animals but we won't be able to allow anyone on site.

“Anyone interested in helping us is welcome to visit by prior arrangement and meet our adorable animals and inspirational young people.”

Anyone who can help should visit the Chy Lowen Alpcas at Tregaswith Facebook page or visit www.gofundme.com/f/keep-chat-operating