THIS week is Cat Protection Week, and the Forest of Dean branch of the organisation is joining in the event.

The Forest branch started in 1991. Its aims are to rescue stray and unwanted cats and kittens, rehabilitate and rehome them where possible and encourage the neutering of all cats not required for breeding.

"At any one time we have approximately 40 cats in our care, but this can rise dramatically in the kitten season," says the branch's Jackie Brown.

"Approximately 250 cats are rehomed each year from our pens, while an additional 60 are rehomed directly from their own home.

"In 1999, 235 Forest cats were neutered. 102 of the cats that came into our care needed veterinary treatment and a further 100 were treated by a vet with our financial assistance.

"We also care for feral cats. A member of our branch regularly feeds colonies and arranges neutering so that the colonies do not grow any larger.

"We have 8 fosterers who span the Forest in Ruspidge, Cinderford, Lydney, Yorkley, Pillowell, Ellwood and Coleford (2). Most fosterers have two pens which are built by specialist companies to the same standard as professional catteries.

"All have insulated cabins and are fitted with 'sneeze barriers' to prevent cross-infection. The pens have good-sized runs which contain cat toys, scratch posts, seats and anything to make the cats comfortable."

The branch's expenditure last year was £28,006. this is raised by volunteers manning stalls at village fetes, carnivals, community centre sales and garden parties.

"We have around 130 local members who receive a quarterly newsletter containing information about cat events with stories and general cat-chat," says Jackie.

Their shop, The Forest Cat, opened in Lydney earlier this year.

The branch also invites donations, including those for a sponsor cat and sponsor pen scheme.

"Individuals can contribute to the cost of a particular cat in our care or to the running of one of our pens," Jackie explains.

"In return they receive news of the cat or pen on a regular basis." Details are available on 01594 833381.