Solar switch helps power rescue centre

A Teesside-based animal charity has cut rising costs thanks to new grant funding.

Maxi’s Mates Rescue and Rehoming Centre, near Guisborough, received a £15,000 boost from the Rural England Prosperity Fund to install solar panels at its growing Dunsdale base. 

Bosses say the move has helped the charity reduce energy bills while continuing to care for stray and abandoned dogs from across the North East.

Jane Galliford, founder and trustee of Maxi’s Mates, who set up the charity in 2012 after rescuing Maxi, a stray Mastiff cross, from the A66, in Middlesbrough, said: “We have a really hefty energy bill here – it’s gone up threefold because we’ve just changed contractors. 

“Our bills are about £30,000 per year.

“The solar panels will really help – they’ve been a godsend, really.”

The fund, backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supports small rural businesses and community groups with capital projects to boost productivity and strengthen rural life.

Maxi’s Mates, founded in 2012, was among 54 organisations to benefit in the past year, alongside dozens of firms and charities using grants for everything from catering equipment to sawmills.

A third round of the scheme is now open for applications, with more than £180,000 available to rural businesses and community groups operating in Redcar and Cleveland.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Maxi’s Mates do incredible work supporting and rehoming dogs across Teesside – and I’m proud we’ve been able to help them cut costs with solar panels and make their centre more sustainable.

“We’re backing our businesses and vital community groups – helping them grow, create jobs and provide services people care about.

“That’s why we’ve opened this scheme up for another year – and I’d encourage more people to get their bids in and see how we can back them.”

Councillor Alec Brown, leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council and TVCA cabinet member, added: “Charities like Maxi’s Mates are the beating heart of our communities, and I know our Council works closely with them. 

“They support those who don’t have a voice, and offer a vital lifeline to canines across the whole North East.

“Backing our rural businesses is vital.

“We’re proud to support them through this funding – and proud to see the difference the fund is making on the ground right across our borough.”

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