Charlie Smith
A HEARTLESS landowner has dealt a vicious blow to animal rights activists after he sold the land their refuge was on.
Despite telling the Animal in Need Foundation that it would have until August 31 to raise the money needed to buy the land, the Spanish owner sold it last week.
It comes after the Olive Press revealed last week that over 800 animals could face being put down if the La Linea shelter was forced to shut.
This however, appears to be of no concern to the ‘ruthless and greedy’ landowner, who notified the centre via a short Facebook message.
“I’m sorry folks, I just sold the land,” he wrote to the centre’s hardworking volunteers.
His move comes despite the centre being given until August 31 to raise the €165,000 needed to buy the plot, claimed a spokesman.
The problems began after the recent death of the shelter’s general manager Peter Koekebakker, who only had verbal agreements with landowners.
An Olive Press campaign was launched last issue (For the chop, Issue 321, pg 4), to save hundreds of cats and dogs, which could be culled if not rehomed.
“The ruthless owner has already shown his true colours,” said a foundation spokesperson.
“He unexpectedly increased the price in a few days, obviously driven by greed!”
But despite this major upset those in charge remain hopeful for a ‘new beginning’.
“While we have not yet reached the figure of €165,000, we will need all possible donations to build a new shelter,” added the spokesman.
Tonight, the public are also invited to a charity golf tournament at Estepona’s El Paraiso club, to be held in Peter Koekebakker’s memory.
Proceeds from the event, which includes a BBQ, live music and a raffle, will go towards the Animal In Need Foundation.
Those interested should contact Mark Bruce on +34 662 013 439
For more information visit www.animalinneed.com
