A WILDLIFE rescue group is encouraging Swindon residents to donate household items to help treat sick or injured animals.

Working with Swindon Ranger Service, the South West Swan Sanctuary (SWSS) is urging people to pack boxes full of items such as jar lids, dried or tinned cat food, kitchen rolls, tweezers and cotton wool.

Donations will be used for food, first-aid, heating and hygiene.

A spokesman said: "To rescue any animal not only takes time and compassion but it costs on average £6 a day in food, time and resources.

"To help SWSS continue its invaluable work we need help."

The charity rescues a range of animals from hedgehogs injured on the roads to birds that have been abused.

In 2003, the SWSS rescued more than 500 birds, including 180 swans.

Donations can be taken to Coate Water Rangers Cottage, Marlbor-ough Road, Swindon.