AN international animal protection group has thanked Wyre Forest shoppers after it raised more than £1,500 at street collections this year.

Animals Asia, set up to save bears and other animals from cruelty in China and Vietnam, raised £1,588.35 during collections in Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport.

Christine Coldrick, Worcestershire co-ordinator for Animals Asia, said: "At our latest Kidderminster collection in Weavers Wharf we raised £388.35, to add to more than £1,200 from five previous collections in Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport.

"I would like to thank everyone in the region who has given so generously. The amount raised is amazing and I am truly grateful to all who have donated."

For more information, visit animalsasia.org.