CATS and dogs are traditionally mortal enemies, but an animal lover says a decision to axe a dog show in Weaverham could have a devastating effect on her cat sanctuary.

Teresa Phillips believes Weaverham Parish Council's decision to cancel next year's Newton's Novelty Dog Show could force the closure of Paws Inn Cat Rescue, which she runs from her Lime Avenue home.

The annual event raises cash for the sanctuary - along with Mid-Cheshire Animal Welfare and Animal Welfare, both based in Rudheath.

Teresa said: 'The money raised at the dog show and donated to Paws Inn helps with veterinary bills for sick and injured stray cats and provides a neutering programme, because one stray female cat can produce as many as 15 feral kittens each year.

'Without events such as this, I would find it impossible to continue the work that I do. This would in turn create a problem for local residents and ultimately for the parish council.'

Council chiefs decided against granting organisers permission for the event, which takes place annually on Weaverham's Lakehouse Field, following complaints over dog mess and particularly about the risk of sportsmen using the field contracting toxicanacanis, which can cause blindness.

Weaverham Parish Council chairman Frank Dolphin said: 'The majority of members were against allowing permission.

'We have had a regular flow of complaints from footballers who use the field about the level of dog mess from dog walkers, though since our decision they have written to us to say they have no complaints about the show, so there is a possibility it could be given approval yet.

'We have had a case in the village of toxicanacanis, where a child had her sight damaged, and we have asked Vale Royal Borough Council to monitor the problem - so it seemed wrong that we should be having this campaign against dog fouling on the field yet allow a dog show.'

Cllr Dolphin said that since the decision the show organisers had assured councillors they clear up all the mess left by the dogs after each show, and added that he believed the matter would be looked at again at Weaverham's next parish council meeting on Monday, November 17.

Teresa is keen that councillors reconsider and said: 'Newton's Novelty Dog Show is a highlight of the village year and offers a great family fun day for all the community, as well as encour-aging responsible pet owner-ship. In fact, it is one of the few events not spoilt by alcohol and anti-social behaviour.

'After the event the field is left spotless, and all money raised is donated to animal welfare charities like Paws Inn.

'This decision, in my opinion, was taken too hastily and with little or no thought for the opinions of the majority of local people.'