A DOG rescue centre is being forced to close its doors and move out of the area after 17 years of helping animals in the community.

Crofters Kennels and Rescue Centre, in Beke Hall Chase, Rayleigh, has been rescuing and rehoming dogs and other animals, as well as offering families a safe and trusted place to leave their pets while they go away.

But the landlords who lease the premises to the centre have now asked Gill Lewis, owner of Crofters, to vacate the buildings so they can be transformed into two homes, according to an application submitted to Rochford District Council.

Mrs Lewis, 54, who has also lived on site with her family for 18 years, said: “It is the end of our lease and we did know this was coming, but it is still very difficult to deal with.

“We were hopeful we might be able to extend the lease but the owners want it back.

“Unfortunately, because we haven’t been able to find other suitable premises, we’re going to have to relocate to Manningtree.

“It will be very sad to leave the community because we’ve been here for so long.

“It has been lovely living here as it is our family home where our kids grew up, making it harder and if we ever find land here we will move back.”

Hundreds of people have taken to the kennel’s Facebook page to wish Gill and her team the best of luck when they move.

Sarah Crone, of Rochford, said: “We got Ronnie from Crofters six years ago and have been bringing him back ever since when we go on holiday.

“We knew he was well looked after and loved coming as he always dragged me up the garden.”

Emma Anderson, from Wickford, said: “I am so grateful for being able to work there and also do some fostering.

“It was an amazing experience and I learnt a lot.

“I wouldn’t have traded that time for anything.”

Mrs Lewis added: “It’s been so lovely how the community has responded. It was quite a surprise to see how many people have said they are going to miss us.

“It’s also been great to see just how many people have shared pictures of their pets that have been adopted from us over the years.”

Gill is going to continue some work in the area as her daughter is based here and will continue to find foster homes for some animals.

She added: “We have decided to continue the rescue in our current area with the help of foster families that are able to care for our many rescued animals until they are found new homes by the team.

“I am going to have a coordinator in the area making sure the fosterers are OK. It just won’t be on the same scale. But once you’re a rescuer you never want to give that up because it is so rewarding.”