Stars of the small screen are supporting vet charity PDSA’s new fundraising initiative, Pounds for Pets, after penning personalised messages which are being displayed in PDSA’s charity store windows nationwide this month.

Strictly Come Dancing star Ali Bastian, Eastenders legend Pam St Clement and The Bill actor Graham Cole have contributed special messages about their pets and their support of PDSA’s work. Animal lovers are also invited to write their own paw print message to be displayed at their local store in return for a donation to help raise vital funds for poorly pets.

PDSA Fundraising Manager, Brenda Smith, said: “We are delighted that some of PDSA’s celebrity friends have got involved with Pounds for Pets, which aims to raise thousands for sick and injured pets across the UK.

“Now we’d like the public to follow suit. So why not write your own message to the special four-legged friend in your life, or in memory of a much loved pet companion? In return for a small donation, the paw print will be displayed until the end of May. Just call into your local PDSA store to get started. All funds raised will help PDSA to care for the sick and injured pets of people in need.”

The Bill actress and proud owner of two cats, Ali Bastian said: “Narla and Brutus are the most comedy cats, they make me smile every day. I love them so much! Lets all support the work of PDSA.”

PDSA’s Pounds for Pets month encourages people to organise their own events to raise funds, such as raffles, book sales, dog walks, dress-down days, karaoke and quiz nights. Those a little braver can raise money by taking part in an exhilarating skydive, abseil or even run a half marathon. Children can also get involved by organising a cake sale or a sponsored silence at school.