Rick Wakeman and Ian Lavender open Feline Care charity store in Diss
Ian Lavender and Rick Wakeman open the Feline Care charity shop in Diss. - Credit: Archant
Celebrities Ian Lavender and Rick Wakeman visited Diss to open a second charity shop supporting the organisation Feline Care.
Ian Lavender and Rick Wakeman open the Feline Care charity shop in Diss. - Credit: Archant
World-renowned keyboard player Mr Wakeman, who has recently returned to Norfolk from a world tour, is a well-known cat fan has been a patron of Feline Care for several years.
Former Dad's Army star Mr Lavender, who is a good friend of Mr Wakeman's and also a cat enthusiast, became a patron after visiting the charity's rescue centre with Mr Wakeman.
The Diss store is the second Feline Care shop, after the original one opened in Attleborough many years ago. It will occupy the old Candies store, in Market Place, and will have new shop signage donated by Debbie at Hugo's Gentleman's Barbers of Thetford.
The shop, which was opened at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, July 12, will be managed by Tim Sparkle.
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Mr Wakeman said: 'I am so pleased the Feline Care has managed to secure the old Candies shop as its Diss premises. It is a fantastic building and one I have always liked.
'I am involved with the charity as it is local and all money is ploughed back into the organisation, unlike some of the national charities.
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'Many people here today are of the same opinion that being local makes such a difference.
'My wife Rachel is mad about our feline friends and we have always had cats. I particularly admire Molly and Paul, who manage the rescue centre - their dedication to the cause is fantastic and they work all hours to keep it going.'
Mr Lavender added: 'The team at Feline Care are an amazing group of people and work hard to keep the charity going.
'The opening of the Diss store is a great boost to the organisation and we are pleased that Tim, the manager, has joined us as we continue to develop fund-raising streams to keep the local charity going.
'I am pleased to be able to support the Feline Care as a local charity devoted to the welfare of cats.'
Are you starting a charity venture? Tell the Mercury by calling 01379 651153 or email dma.news@archant.co.uk
