Animal-obsessed 7-year-old to climb Mole Famau for Dusters Ark

Seven-year-old Eliza from Weaverham is completing a sponsored walk up Mole Famau on Sunday, November 28, in the hope of raising much-needed funds for a cause close to home.

Mum Jo Nancollis explained: "I've been involved with rescues for a very long time and I currently foster for a local animal shelter in Hartford called Dusters Ark.

"It is primary a sanctuary for all sorts of furries and feathers.

"But it specialises in rescuing feral cats and kittens."

Jo said the amount of cats and kittens on the streets has increased during lockdown and Dusters Ark now has more than 100 in its care.

Year three Crowton Christ Church pupil Eliza was determined to help by raising money.

"It's the time of year for Christmas sales where you might raise £100, but Eliza wanted to do something which was more substantial and would really pull in donations," Jo said.

"So she will be climbing Mole Famau."

This is the highest hill in the Clwydian Range and the highest point of the county of Flintshire in Wales.

Jo added: "We're hoping it will take five to six hours, all being well, depending on the weather and what the ground is like going up there.

"She is really looking forward to it and we're taking one of our rescue dogs with us."

The family also has seven resident cats, three dogs, a lot of fish, six foster cats and two giant African land snails.

There is also a sheep at Dusters Ark which the family rescued as a lamb – it even slept with Eliza in the house.

Jo said: "Eliza goes up to Dusters Ark quite a lot and she'll feed the animals and play with them and spend time with them.

"She is a vegetarian, she made that decision herself, because she didn't want to eat her friends."

Animal-obsessed Eliza has already managed to raise more than £900 to help Dusters Ark with vet bills.

To donate to the youngster's sponsored walk, you can visit gofundme.com/f/rh7g8-to-help-reduce-dusters-ark-vet-bills?.