A resident of Gunwalloe, just outside of Helston, has vowed to walk 144 miles across June to raise money for the Seal Sanctuary as they appeal for help.

22-year-old Kelsey Bell, an avid visitor fundraiser for charity, has decided to use her free time to support the sanctuary as they have taken a huge financial hit since the pandemic.

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary has not been able to open their doors for two months which has lost its pinnacle revenue stream from visitors.

Due to the government's recent announcement that zoos and sanctuaries will remain closed for the foreseeable future, the establishment is worried about staying afloat.

Kelsey plans to do six miles a day until the end of June to raise money for the cause, she told Nub News:

"As a hospitality worker, this will keep me busy whilst out of work, at the same time helping somewhere that needs it."

Speaking on the importance of fundraising for the sanctuary right now, Kelsey told Nub News:

"Their overheads per month can cost in excess of £23,000.

"So far they have been unable to open their doors for two months, so are looking at around £46,000 worth of fundraising that needs to be done.

"These costs cover the food for all animals in the sanctuary, from seals to goats, to ponies. As well as food, it covers the cost of medication and treatment for during the rehabilitation period, and for the more permanent patients that will be unable to be released back into the wild."

The Sanctuary has spoken on the fear for their future, saying: "As we are still unable to open, our future is of great concern. We can't continue our work without you."

Kelsey continued:

"Without these places, animals that have fallen unwell, but still stand a chance of survival will most likely not survive.

"The Seal Sanctuary helps to nurse injured and unwell sea life back to good health, and then releases them back into the wild, so their efforts are extremely important."

You can support Kelsey's 144-mile fundraiser here.