A pet shop has raised a GoFundMe appeal as it struggles to stay in business.

The Reptile Shed in Hamsey Green, Croydon, has appealed for financial help to save the shop from closing.

Owner Tim Ashton says on the GoFundMe page: “We are in severe financial difficulty and we are running out of options to stay here and house our amazing, rescued reptiles. 

“If they lose their home they will have to be rehomed again. Some of our rescues have suffered awful abuse and have found a loving, caring home with us. We also can not engage and work with so many amazing groups, customers of all ages, special needs children and adults and our volunteers if we are not here. We need your help to stay open.

“The Reptile Shed started at home where I started to rescue unwanted reptiles. As my collection of rescues grew, I moved them to our premises in Hamsey Green and they live in lovely, large enclosures and they are cared for with love by myself, our amazing volunteers, youth club members and SEN youth club members. I don't want to see this end, so I need to ask for help.

“I saw another Croydon business use Go Fund Me to help save their business and I am hoping that similar kind people can help us.”

Tim added that he needed funds to help pay for rent, electricity, equipment, supplies and food.

A week after launching, the appeal had raised £645 of the £7,000 target.

The shop’s GoFundMe page can be found here https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-the-reptile-shed-hamsey-green