The Scratching Post cat sanctuary was battered by last weekend's storm

Last Saturday as 20,000 lightening bolts struck locations across the country, rain was pouring down on the Scratching Post cat sanctuary in Waltham Abbey.

As well as a large number of frightened felines, the storm left in its wake two damaged buildings currently used to home cats.

Steve Heyes, who runs the charity with partner Susan Delaney, said: "With the rain the other day it was really the final straw.

"There is no more patching up. The water came through the ceiling. It shorted the electrics. It is getting to the stage where it is not safe using it.

"In one of the units the whole floor was flooded. It was underwater."

As well as the dangers of an electrified cat house, the water has caused a large depression to one of the buildings' floor and rot to take hold in the walls of the other.

With more than 100 cats in their care, 70 on the waiting list and kitten season in full flow, the couple are determined to repair the damage and get the sanctuary back up to full capacity.

To do that requires the temporary rehoming of cats.

Ms Delaney added: "We have found temporary fosters for a couple of them and some of them have been rehomed.

"Some will have to go in another unit. Some of them have been here a long time because of their health issues."

In addition to short and long term foster-owners coming forward, the Scratching Post is requesting donations so the work can be completed.

Ms Delaney said: "The cost of these repairs will be massive and without support, the repairs cannot be afforded.

"We urgently need financial help to ensure the sanctuary is safe for the cats now and in the future.

"The estimated cost is £20,000 to £30,000."

Since the new was shared on Facebook last week, donations and offers of help have been pouring in, but the sanctuary needs more.

To donate through Paypal search for scratchingpostrescue@hotmail.co.uk or transfer to the Barclays bank account number 20910716, sort code 202037.