Van man David gives vital lift to the RSPCA

A SADDLEWORTH man and a van came to the animal rescue when heartless thieves stole a vehicle belonging to the RSPCA.

Delph based David Orritt is a director of County Car and Van Rental, and offered roadside assistance when he heard of the Oldham branch’s plight.

Now the animal charity is mobile again as it counts down the days to a permanent move to its new shelter and community support centre at Strinesdale Country Park.

The stolen RSPCA van

Denise McCabe, Operations Director for the Bury Oldham and District branch, told the Independent: “We didn’t use the old van for carrying animals.

“But it was vital to moving goods and donations between our various charity shops. Without it we were limited in what we could take.

“Thanks to David and County Van Rental we have got a replacement vehicle until the insurance is sorted out on the stolen one.”

David, who has lived in Saddleworth for more than 40 years after moving from Mossley, was only too pleased to step in.

“We are not cash rich but we do have plenty of vans,” he laughed. “A friend of a friend told me what had happened so I was happy to help until they get sorted.

“Besides, I got a rescue cat from the RSPCA a few years ago so I have a soft spot for the charity.”

The new RSPCA centre

The RSPCA is throwing open the doors of their new facility at Holgate Street on May 14 between 12 noon and 4pm.

Members of the public are welcome to join in the celebrations, view the new facilities, browse the shop, meet current adoptees, and support the cause. Cake and drinks will be available.

The charity has so far raised £1.8 million after moving to temporary accommodation following the demolition of its former premises near Mumps bridge in August 2015.