First of all, I'd like to thank everyone who has helped Rainbow Ark in the past - promoting the benefit gigs, sending money, sending support.

Unfortunately I must now tell you that Paula (Rainbow Ark owner) received a letter on the 30th December telling her that if she didn't pay nearly £8,700 to the bank (in cleared funds) by 4pm that day, they would apply for a warrant for possession.

Paula is still going through her appeal in court against the criminals who stole from her in the first place and out her in this mess. Things haven't gone well for the sanctuary recently.

Paula's daughter was attacked when Paula was due to be doing a publicity stunt and interview one day so Paula stayed with her in hospital, she had no legal representation in court for her appeal and when a member of the public with some legal knowledge agreed to help her, she had her bag stolen from her on the way to the train station for court and was unable to make it to the case.

The judge shouted Paula out of court and throwing her case out, saying he would not read anything her representative had prepared because the representative wasn't present.

Paula's been given 28 days (from the 30th December) before she loses her home and the sanctuary.

We're lost for what to do. Maybe if we got the money to the bank, they would accept it even though it's late? Maybe writing to your MP, the bank, etc. as is being suggested might help...

Maybe we need you guys out there reading indymedia right now to help us.

Any deas...?