CATS PROTECTION

We recently had a call from a lady whose neighbour had moved and left behind what she believed was a 6-month-old kitten. Fortunately one of our kitten pens had just become vacant and we agreed to take it in. It was handed to us via the local vets and it was immediately obvious, that although very small, it was not a kitten. This little cat was very thin (we could feel her bones) and had obviously been neglected for some time. She also had diarrhoea and therefore needed special food to help her recover. We called her Carly and allowed her to adapt to her new surroundings for several days before a visit to the vets. The vets estimated that she was about 18 months old and were concerned with her general condition. It was decided to blood test her to identify any problems she had. Although there were indications of problems, (a consequence of her neglect) she tested negative to FIV and FELV. She was given antibiotics and continued with her special diet. Carly is now looking much brighter, has already put on weight and has someone eager to give her a new home.  Two strays have also joined us: Bibs, a lovely tabby and white boy was found wandering on a busy road, and an 8 week old kitten was found in the middle of a country lane with no houses in sight. These two newcomers will be held for two weeks before being offered for adoption. Although Bob, mentioned in our last article has now left us, Bertie the other stray, is still waiting to be chosen. If you are looking for a cat or kitten please call Stephanie on 01692 535858. Alternatively you can visit http://www.northwalsham.cats.org.uk for a description and photographs of the cats before giving her a call on the above number.

MP Visits Fishing Sheds

Sheringham and District Preservation Society was very pleased to welcome North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb to the former Fishing Sheds on West Cliff, Sheringham, recently. These Victorian buildings were supplied by the Upcher family of Sheringham Hall for the use of the fishing community and are one of the few physical reminders of the economic importance of fishing to the town in years gone by.  Chairman Reg Grimes and other members of the committee were on hand to explain how the society campaigned to restore the sheds in response to controversial plans to demolish them. Mr Lamb heard about fundraising for the £150,000 project, which received grants from EEDA and a European redevelopment fund, as well as contributions from many Sheringham people and visitors. Chief Steward Nancy Appleton gave Mr Lamb a guided tour of the Fishermen's Heritage Centre including the Henry Ramey Upcher lifeboat and explained that both the model of the Augusta and the information boards were new this year. He was also shown the extensive collection of shell artworks made and generously donated by Peter Coke of Sharrington Hall.  The visit coincided with one of the heavy, blustery showers we have become used to this summer, which kept other visitors away. After looking round, Mr Lamb said that the displays in both the Fishermen's Heritage Centre and the Shell Gallery were "Absolutely brilliant and a credit to the Society". He hoped that more stewards would volunteer to take the pressure off Nancy and her helpers and to allow the shell gallery to open for longer hours.  For information on opening hours see leaflets in Sheringham's Tourist Information Centre or visit www.sheringham-preservation.org.uk.