The event, in Lewes Road, Chelwood Gate, had previously been the biggest annual fundraiser for the centre, which rehomes unwanted and abandoned cat in the area.

After the pandemic meant the centre had to close to the public, staff have spent the past two years hosting online fundraisers to help towards costs, but say they’re thrilled to once again welcome in the public.

The event will be held from 10am until 4pm at the centre in Lewes Road, Chelwood Gate. Activities will include stalls, hot food, entertainment, live music, beer tent, behind the scenes tours of the centre, dog show, facepainting and birds of prey. There will also be a flyball display from the Southern Striders – fresh from their appearance at Crufts – who will also be giving dog owners the chance to try out flyball with their own pooches.

Cats Protection’s National Cat Adoption Centre Tania Marsh said: “We rely totally on fundraising to continue our vital cat welfare work, and our Summer Fun Day is the biggest opportunity we have of the year to raise money.

“When the pandemic started, we had to close the centre to the public but our dedicated staff carried on throughout. In between caring for cats, we set up all sorts of ways to raise money online – such as hosting Halloween and craft activities over Facebook Live, setting up an Amazon wish list and organising virtual quizzes.

“As well as raising money, it was great to keep in touch with our supporters, and we’re absolutely thrilled that finally we can open our doors to welcome the public once again. This year’s Summer Fun Day will be more special than ever and we hope local people will come along and say hello after such a long time away.”

Entry is free but a tin of cat food or unused cat toy will be gratefully received.

Among the cats currently being cared for at the centre is Banjo and Lucy. Tania said: “All the money raised on the day will go towards helping look after lovely cats like Banjo and Lucy and helping to find them new loving homes.”