My sincere apologies for not posting sooner, it has been a very sad and hard week, coming to terms with the loss of Ron.
Lost Cats Brighton are incredibly sad to announce that Ron Ayres, founder of the charity, passed away peacefully on 08 January, aged 78. Ron was at home, with his family, and of course his much-loved cats.
Ron's total dedication to the lost, stray and unwanted cats in the city, prevailed to the very end, and despite being unwell with cancer for some time, Ron continued to be actively involved in the running of the shelter. His indomitable spirit, his passion and his tireless efforts, have been an incredible inspiration and source of comfort and support, for many people.
A small independent organisation, which has run entirely from Ron's rented bungalow in Portslade, began life as a ‘Lost & Found’ list to help reunite cats with their owners, and gradually grew to become one of Brighton’s busiest shelters.
Reliant entirely on a dedicated team of volunteers, and on donations from supporters, Lost Cats Brighton has re-homed an average of almost 150-200 cats each year. An incredible achievement, driven forward with tremendous grit and determination by Ron.
As the author Mark Twain said, "When a man loves cats, I am his friend and comrade, without further introduction." Ron loved all the cats in his care dearly, and had friends and comrades aplenty.
Ron's zest for life, his no-nonsense approach, his courage and his humour, will leave a hole in the lives of so many.
It is not known exactly what lies ahead for Lost Cats Brighton, since its current premises will need to be vacated imminently, however the charity remains committed to continuing Ron's legacy. Many years of searching for viable new premises have so far proved unsuccessful, however, the search will continue. In the short-term Lost Cats Brighton will be concentrating on winding down the shelter on Valley Road in Portslade, and finding suitable homes for the remaining cats in care.
The trustees of the charity respectfully request at this time that people focus on Ron's memory, and celebrate his incredible achievements in helping Brighton & Hove's most vulnerable cats, during the past 17 years.
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Ron Ayres 21.04.38 - 08.01.17
