Raystede History

The Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare was founded by Miss M. Raymonde-Hawkins M.B.E. in 1952 in order to prevent and relieve cruelty to animals and to protect them from unecessary suffering. Two years earlier she had decided to devote herself to animals in need using her home and garden as the base for a Centre. In the following years the generosity of friends and supporters enabled Miss Raymonde-Hawkins to purchase neighbouring fields, as they came up for sale, to allow for the Centre's expansion. Her team of selfless volunteers grew and, thanks to their dedication as well as the funds from supporters and benefactors, the enterprise has grown from those small beginnings to the size and importance that you see today.

Miss Raymond-Hawkins died in 1998 secure in the knowledge that her foresight and endeavour had brought so many neglected and unwanted animals a second chance in life.

The last ten years have seen dramatic advances in the Centre's expansion, thanks to the sound management of Morgan Williams and Raystede's Trustees lead by Cyril Mann. Today, Nigel Mason, Chief Executive, brings his long experience in animal care to carry on their good work. We pay tribute to them, as well as Penelope Keith and Kenneth Kendall, for their unselfish assistance.