Hunt for kennels as Wolverhampton charity home is sold

The Wolverhampton branch of The Retired Greyhound Trust, RGT, is seeking help following the retirement of its founder.

Alison Bandurak set up Monmore Green RGT in 2002 with the aim of finding good homes for dogs when they come to the end of their racing careers at Monmore Green Stadium.

Leading a team of volunteers she has overseen the homing of around 2,800 greyhounds.

But Alison has now decided to retire and sell her home in Essington, from which the branch operates, meaning new kennels are required so it can continue its work.

Bosses at the trust said they would not allow the branch to fold.

Jo Blake, Operations Manager for the RGT, said: "Alison and her team have done an amazing job in building one of the RGT's most successful branches, finding homes for these wonderful dogs, fundraising and spreading awareness of what fantastic companions greyhounds make.

"We are so grateful to Alison for all the hard work she has put in over the years, and pleased that she will remain part of the charity's continued success.

"We now need to ensure we find the very best base for the group to continue to grow and develop, and are very excited to explore opportunities in the area for a new home for the Wolverhampton RGT hounds and humans."

RGT Wolverhampton is one of the largest branches within the Retired Greyhound Trust, homing more than 200 ex-racing greyhounds each year. At capacity it can cater for 50 dogs at any given time."

With the help of an army of volunteers – numbering around 100 – Alison has helped thousands of retired greyhounds to find loving and responsible homes as pets.

Alison, said: "I strived to build the branch with the help of many others.

"We started from scratch and now we have over 100 registered volunteers and a strong committee with 10 designated areas of responsibility.

"We couldn't have come this far without the people who help in their spare time – they truly are the life blood of the RGT."

Even though she's soon to retire, Alison will continue working with the dogs as a volunteer. She added: "My family are greyhound people and that will never change. I will always be a volunteer, as I am now, for the RGT." The RGT is keen to speak to anyone within 20 miles of Wolverhampton who may be able to help.

To help ring 020 8335 3016.