A GSPCA staff member who clocked up 30-years of service was invited to lay the first brick of the charity’s new wildlife hospital.
Yvonne Chauval, the GSPCA’s longest serving staff member, put down the first block on the day she marked her three decades with the organisation.
She was selected due to her role caring for thousands of animals, supporting colleagues and advising the community.
“The GSPCA has been such a huge part of my life, and to be part of this historic moment means the world to me,” she said.
“I’ve seen so much change over the years, and this new Wildlife Hospital will make an incredible difference for the animals and the team. Thank you to everyone who has supported us.”
GSPCA Manager Steve Byrne said it was “incredibly moving” to see her lay the first brick on what was a “truly historic moment” for the charity.
“She had no idea as we kept it a surprise and the tears of joy and surprise showed how much it meant to her. We’re so grateful to everyone who has helped us get this far,” he said.
Special guests including supporters and trustees gathered alongside team members to watch the first stages of the multi-million pound development get underway.
They were treated to behind the scenes tours of what will become dedicated areas for birds, hedgehogs, seal pools, a new kennel and a ferret unit.
He told attendees how vital community support has been for the project, noting that nearly half of the £3.7m costs have been raised so far and some unexpected issues were faced while the foundations were dug.
Mr Byrne paid special tribute to Breton, their construction partners, for supporting the project.
“There’s still a long way to go, but with continued support, we can build a facility that will serve animals and our community for generations to come,” he said.
People can support the development by buying a brick, sponsoring a treatment room or by making a direct donation.
He said a donation of £65,000 would cover the costs of buying solar panels to ensure the building is sustainable.