THE team at a Sedgley animal sanctuary have launched an appeal to boost security at the site after five animals were snatched earlier this week.

A Just Giving page has been set up for the not-for-profit sanctuary to completely secure its perimeter fence from intruders and to install wider CCTV and alarm system coverage.

Staff, who who have already moved into the site during lockdown, have even started sleeping outside to keep watch over the sanctuary's inhabitants.

The measure comes after five animals- two sheep and three turkeys- were snatched over the site's perimeter fence on Monday night (May 25).

A post on Brockswood's Facebook page reads: "We must do everything possible to raise the funds needed to keep their home safe. This will involve upgrades such as new padlocks for enclosures, wider CCTV and alarm system coverage, security lighting, and most importantly, completely securing our perimeter fences against intruders.

"We've priced everything up and the target is huge, but every single penny raised will go towards this – keeping our animals safe and secure. Our animals rely entirely on us to keep them safe, and we do not want to let them down. This is their Forever Home and it’s time to make sure it stays that way."

Police are investigating after the animals- named Trevor, Clarissa, Rose, Florence and Minnie- were stolen in an overnight raid.

It is believed the animals were lifted over the site's perimeter fence.

Neil Swan, director of the Catholic Lane facility told the News the incident had left staff heartbroken and highlighted the need for extra security at the 16 acre site.

He said: "Our supporters have been really good and got us through but I have reached the point now where we need more security.

"I would rather spend the money on the animals and rescuing more animals but their safety is paramount, we're here to look after them."

Staff are now in the process of planning how to safely reopen when given the green light by the government and are cautiously optimistic they will be be able to open in July.

Supporters have already raised more than £5,000 to cover Brockswood's ongoing running costs after its income was reduced to zero by the coronavirus lockdown.