MORE than 700 visitors flocked to Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary for its open day and raised more than £5,000 for the charity.

Pam St Clement, best known for playing Pat Butcher in EastEnders, was the special guest.

The actress posed for photos with a red-tailed hawk from Wheatley Birds of Prey.

Iain Atkin, manager of the sanctuary in Stadhampton near Wallingford, said the event on Sunday was a great success.

He added: "We got 700 visitors in two-and-a-half hours, which was more than last year, and a great show of support given that the British Grand Prix, Wimbledon and Cowley Carnival were on at the same time.

"Pam St Clement spent the afternoon having her photo taken with visitors for a generous donation.

"More than £5,000 was raised and all proceeds will go towards animal care, new kennels and training so animals can find permanent homes."

Mr Atkin said 40 volunteers helped to run the open day with families bringing pets that used to live at the centre.

Clive Jones, from Wheatley Birds of Prey, said: "We brought five birds along. We try to go along every year to show our support."

Oxford East MP Andrew Smith, the sanctuary's president, also called in.

For further information visit oascharity.org.uk