A HAMPSHIRE animal rescue centre which was almost destroyed in an arson attack that killed nearly 20 animals is today building for the future.

Only two pets survived when a blaze ripped through the Animal Rescue Centre in Southampton at the Easter weekend. Police are treating the incident as suspicious.

Now manager John Harding is determined not to let the arsonists beat him. He has launched an appeal for people to donate building blocks to help rebuild the animal sanctuary and a 50ft extension.

Mr Harding, who has run the rescue centre for three years, said: "I would ask all the people of Southampton who have had an extension in the last couple of years to see if they have any blocks left over.

"Everyone always has the six or seven blocks left over when they have some building work done.

"For some people it is just junk but for us it is vital."

Four South American chinchillas, three rabbits, two kittens, a cat, one rat, a budgie and various hamsters and guinea pigs died in the attack last Saturday night at the centre in Shirley Road. Only a rat and a red-tailed boa snake could be rescued by fire crews who fought the flames for an hour and a half.

Repairs are expected to cost thousands of pounds and the damage has decimated the dedicated work Mr Harding had been doing for three years without drawing a salary.

The qualified mechanical and electrical engineer has now buried the animals in his back garden but plans to get the rescue centre back on its feet.

Mr Harding, from New Milton, added: "I love my job with the animals and can't give it up.

"We have already got bricklayers who would be prepared to help so now we need the materials."

If you would like to donate building materials contact Mr Harding on 07909 594737.

Det Con Tim Plummer from Shirley CID is still keen to speak to anyone who may have any information about the incident, including two people who flagged down a passing fire engine in Shirley Road.

He can be contacted on 0845 045 4545.