A former EastEnders actress is calling on animal lovers to support neglected and homeless pets.

Anita Dobson lent her support to the Blue Cross animal charity campaign to raise money by asking people to host a tea party.

She said: “I cannot think of anything nicer than supporting all those lovely animals.”

Becky Dawe, deputy head nurse at the charity’s hospital in Merton High Street, Colliers Wood, said: “As a nation of tea lovers, what better way to help sick, homeless and needy pets than by enjoying a cuppa and a cake.”

Blue Cross helps care for thousands of pets each year but receives no Government funding and relies on donations to continue its work.

Visit bluecrossteaparty. org.uk or call 08444 993663 for your free host pack.