LOSING a pet is always hard for any family, and now there's a place to go to remember them and grieve as a new memorial garden opens in Cornwall.

RSPCA Cornwall have created a special space within the ground of The Venton Animal Centre at St Columb Major, where people are welcome to come and sit quietly to remember their deceased pets.

The animal rescue centre is also giving people the chance to create a memorial to remember their pet including a tree and flower planting, with engraved plaques.

Emily Bowen, chief executive officer at RSPCA Cornwall Branch, said: “Our pets are treasured members of the family and we feel their loss in the same way we may mourn other relatives and close friends. Our new memorial garden will be a place where you can come to remember your beloved companion in a calm and peaceful setting. This space at our centre will be tended and cared for in honour of your cherished departed companions.

“Our new memorial garden will be a place where you can come to remember your beloved companion in a calm and peaceful setting. This space at our centre will be tended and cared for in honour of your cherished departed companions.”

Emily added: "We understand that people remember their animals in a different way, and therefore we would like to offer a personalised memorial."

"All funds raised from the memorial garden will go towards helping the team to continue to look after the animals in their care, many of who have been rescued from unimaginable cruelty and neglect and are desperate for a much needed-second chance."

The Venton Animal Centre, near St Columb, is run by the RSPCA Cornwall Branch, a separately registered branch of the RSPCA who raise all funds locally.

To help the RSPCA Cornwall Branch continue its work or make a donation visit the website. Or if you would like to commemorate your pet in the memorial garden, get in touch with Emily Bowen via emily@rspca.org.uk