Our Founder
Ann with her own dogs.
The beginning
For our generation and future generations it is important we understand why our founder’s legacy should continue; S.A.R.A., Saving and Rehoming Animals - The Ann Prosser Foundation.
Ann was an inspiration to everyone that met her. Ann was never married and she focused her life working with children and alongside of this always having a need to rescue an animal that had been mistreated.
After her retirement she focused more on the animals knowing that the North East of England had a reputation for high levels of animal cruelty.
In the beginning in 1995 with a small group of friends Ann formed Saltburn Animal Rescue Association.
A group of eight friends met at the Saltburn library and within a few months we became a Registered Charity. Meetings took place monthly and we gained many new members.
How we grew
Over the years we became more ambitious with our fundraising events.
Ann had a captivating personality and her enthusiasm and determination was infectious.
Ann had a vision that one day we would raise enough money to have our much needed animal sanctuary and this is where we started to build a firm foundation.
Raising funds for Saltburn Animal Rescue Association.
In 1995 we started an appeal to raise more money and in August 1999, we bought a derelict property and land on Kirkleatham Lane, Foxrush Farm. We made the farmhouse liveable.
It was not long before each bedroom had cats and cats and kittens in and the pigsties were converted in to dog kennels. There were many sleepless nights but we always supported Ann to make her dream come true.
Today
We now have 168 registered members, employ four full time and 1 part time staff members staff, with an active Executive Committee and many trusted regular volunteers.
Our Mission Statement written by Ann is to provide a safe and secure environment for local and stray and unwanted animals whilst treating each animal in their own right through financing, medical and accommodation expenses, until new homes can be found.
We are proud of the care we give to our animals.
Sadly, Ann passed away in June 2017 and is very much missed. Prior to her passing, Ann was shown and approved of our plans for the charity to be renamed S.A.R.A., Saving and Rehoming Animals, The Ann Prosser Foundation.
Everyone connected with SARA is proud of what we have achieved and with pride and determination Ann’s legacy will live on.