A rabbit rescue service was today hoping to pull some new homes out of the hat for dozens of abandoned bunnies.

Thumpers Rabbit Rescue, which has foster homes in Basildon and Southend, has 30 rabbits which need rehoming.

Winter is the time owners are most likely to dump rabbits because it is cold and they don't want to venture outside to care for them.

Founder Helen Frost said: "Rabbits get a bit left out.

"When people think about getting a dog, their immediate reaction is to go to a rescue centre. People who want a rabbit still tend to go to a pet shop - but this needn't be the case.

"We always have rabbits which are looking for a new home and little bit of TLC."

Most rabbits that arrive at Thumpers in need of rehoming are young. They are bought in the spring but then dumped when the weather gets cold.

Helen added: "Rabbits get a bad deal. Cats and dogs live inside a house - whereas in the winter many rabbits live like prisoners in a hutch at the bottom of the garden."

Among the centre's newest arrivals are four baby Dutch rabbits.

Anyone adopting a rabbit from Thumpers is asked for a £10 donation. Call 01268 452181.

Four to adore - foster carer Caroline Sanders with four homeless young rabbits from the Thumpers service

Picture: MIKE BELLENIE

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