A rescue centre said it is struggling to look after its animals after volunteer work was stopped due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Staff at the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) located in Tylers Way, Watford, are trying to cope with the crisis and said they are trying their best to feed all the animals without the help of volunteers.

The charity - which looks after dogs, cats, farm animals and other pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs - relies completely on donations to carry out its work.

The Government announced on Monday (March 23) that people should only be allowed to leave their homes for essential shopping, medical reasons, to help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work.

Up until Tuesday (March 24), the trust said people were still asking about the animals. There were fewer visits but more phone calls.

But it has now had to shut its doors to volunteers and visitors to follow Government guidelines and to protect the staff and animals.

Staff say they are trying to feed all the animals, walk the dogs, wash bedding, clean enclosures and looks after cats without extra help.

The NAWT pays for medical checks and makes sure each animal is neutered, vaccinated and micro-chipped.

The closure of the centre to the public also means the trust has been unable to get any supplies and donations. It is also missing out on revenue that would have been generated from its cafe.

Centre manager Jackie De Friez said: "Our focus during these turbulent times is the welfare of both the animals in our care and our people.

"We are taking every measure to keep our employees and volunteers safe so they can continue to provide the care needed.

"We're reviewing measures on a day-to-day basis and taking the necessary steps to ensure continuity of care for our animals."