People are being encouraged to raise a paw for Wetnose Day and support the work of a Norfolk-based animal charity.

Eastern Daily Press: Actor and animal campaigner Peter Egan at the Wetnose Day launch. Picture: Courtesy of Wetnose Animal Aid.Actor and animal campaigner Peter Egan at the Wetnose Day launch. Picture: Courtesy of Wetnose Animal Aid. (Image: Archant)

Wetnose Animal Aid, based in Kirby Cane, is calling on animal lovers to get involved in national Wetnose Day on September 29, with fundraising events continuing over the weekend until October 1.

The event, organised by the non-profit organisation, hopes to raise much-needed funds for the thousands of sick and neglected animals living in rescue shelters.

Eastern Daily Press: TV presenter Chris Packham is supporting Wetnose Day. Picture: Courtesy of Wetnose Animal Aid.TV presenter Chris Packham is supporting Wetnose Day. Picture: Courtesy of Wetnose Animal Aid. (Image: Archant)

People are being asked to buy and wear a black foam nose and pose with a nose, as well as holding their own fundraiisng events.

The launch was held in London last month attended by celebrities including host Wendy Turner Webster, actor and animal campaigner Peter Egan, actress Lorraine Chase, Vicki Michelle MBE and Debbie Douglas from The Only Way Is Essex.

Eastern Daily Press: Andrea Gamby-Boulger, founder of Wetnose Animal Aid with her two dogs. Picture: Nick Butcher.Andrea Gamby-Boulger, founder of Wetnose Animal Aid with her two dogs. Picture: Nick Butcher. (Image: �archant2016)

Wetnose Animal Aid was established in 2000 by Andrea Gamby-Boulger and her late husband Gavin to care for stray and sick animals at their rescue centre and in 2014 they launched National Wetnose Day in a bid to raise funds for smaller animal shelters across the UK.

Mrs Gamby-Boulger said: 'Wetnose Day is a real chance to give sick, abused animals and wildlife a proper voice, to remind people to 'think rescue' rather than buying a puppy from a breeder or over the internet.

'As part of the event we can raise the profile of the amazing pets that come into rescue who have so much love and fun to bring to caring new owners. This day will help educate children about the importance of having rescue centres and to look after our pets sensibly and with care.'

The event is sponsored by Diss-based Animed Direct and Frontline Plus.

Nathan Flatman from Animed Direct, said: 'We are delighted to be supporting Andrea and her team in promoting Wetnose Day, raising the issues of animal welfare awareness and pet ownership. As pet owners ourselves, who serve thousands of pet customers every day, this campaign is essential and we urge everyone to pose with their nose.'

Noses are available to order online at www.wetnoseanimalaid.com where fundraising packs can also be downloaded.