Our History

Our founder Lois Entwhistle first established the Voluntary Animal Welfare Society (V.A.W.S.) in 1960. This feisty and forward thinking lady cared passionately about animals and campaigned tirelessly against cruelty to both domestic animals and those exploited by profit.

The plight of circus animals was a cause especially dear to her heart and she fought tooth and nail to bring their suffering to the public’s attention at a time when very few people gave this archaic form of entertainment a second thought.

V.A.W.S. was also active in rescuing both domestic pets and strays from cruelty and neglect. The Society promoted the benefits of neutering, thus stopping the spread of unwanted animals.

Over the years the Charity grew from strength to strength, becoming particularly renowned for its pioneering work with the ever expanding cat population.

On Mrs Entwhistle’s retirement, the work of the Society carried on for many years with our own, dear friend and original trustee the late Mrs Rae Sinnett as the Charity’s driving force.

In 1995 The Charity was reformed as Cat Welfare Sussex. The object of which is the relief of cats both domestic and feral in need of care and attention by reason of maltreatment, sickness poor circumstances, ill usage or other similar causes.