A celebrity baker has been named the new patron of the RSPCA Stubbington Ark.

Jane Dunn, who grew up in Portsmouth, took on the role to support the charity’s work in animal rehoming and rehabilitation.

An animal lover, Jane adopted her two cats from Stubbington Ark and is one of the sponsors of its new cattery, which opened in September 2024.

She is known for her successful blog and brand, Jane's Patisserie, and all four of her baking books are Sunday Times bestsellers.

Jane will now help with publicity for the Stubbington Ark, support at events, and engage the public through social media.

The Stubbington Ark, run by the independent RSPCA The Ark, is a self-funded charity that costs £1.3 million per year to operate.

Current patrons of the charity include ITV newsreader Amanda Piper and ex-Saints player turned pundit Francis Benali.

Jane joins them to boost the charity's profile and aid its funding.

Ms Dunn said: "I’ve always adored animals and wanted to help where I can, so after adopting my two cats I knew I wanted to do more. I’m so excited to be a Patron for Stubbington Ark and I am looking forward to this new role and helping where I can."

Karen Macklin, Branch Manager, said: "Any help we can get highlighting the incredible work the team does here for animal welfare is greatly received, and we are delighted that Jane has now become one of our Patrons. Jane has already kindly sponsored one of our new cattery pods, so we are immensely grateful that she is willing to give some of her time as well, in helping us here at the Stubbington Ark."

The RSPCA The Ark, as an independent branch, is separately registered and relies on public donations and support for its operations.

For more information about RSPCA The Ark, visit: www.rspcasolentbranch.org.uk/

For more information about Jane Dunn, visit: www.janespatisserie.com/about/