A WALLASEY cat and dog champion has celebrated a 30-year contribution to animal welfare.

Susan Baker was joined by friends and neighbours at the Queen's pub in Liscard Village on Friday for a charity night in aid of her animal rescue efforts - and the admission price was a tin of cat or dog food.

Over the years, Sue, pictured right, has taken in hundreds of animals, including cats, dogs, ferrets and sick fish.

She is registered with animal welfare, but prefers to work from her home which also features more than 100 statues of cats and dogs in the front room.

She buys 200 tins of pet food each week for her permanent house guests which include 16-year-old cat Thomas and cocker spaniel Lucy, who was abandoned at an early age and due to be put down when Sue stepped in and saved her.

Friend Carol Randall told Globe that Sue has spent 30 years looking after animals and is totally dedicated to her work. She says: "Not many people who would do what Susan does. Her whole life revolves around animal rescue and even when she's struggling to keep her head above water her first priority is the animals.

"She's the only person I know who spends less on her own food than on animal food."

Susan, 52, firmly believes in a family environment, thoughShe has been fostering for 28 years, has 18 grandchildren and her 19th is due.

She says she really enjoys the work and is fully supported by her husband Adrian, who regularly brings home animals.

"I don't think about what I do, I just do it. Everyone knows me. Even the police 'phone me if they find a stray"

To help Sue by donating cat or dog food, call her on 639-7032.