AN ANIMAL lover who suffers from a debilitating condition is planning on doing a sponsored dive with sharks to raise money for an animal charity.

Sarah West, 33, from Cwmbran, who has three cats and 22 fish, is hoping to raise £425 for PDSA, the UK’s leading veterinary charity.

Mrs West’s father-in-law, Norman, used to work with the charity as a volunteer.

Following a fall at work in November 2013, Mrs West has suffered from fibromyalgia, a chronic condition of widespread pain and profound fatigue. She says she is in constant pain and cannot leave her bed at times.

Since her fall, she has set herself a goal of doing something for charity and hopes to do the sponsored dive with sharks at Chester Aquarium on her 34th birthday on June 7.

She said: “I can’t run and am too heavy for a sky dive, but I’m a confident swimmer. I’m a bit of a water baby. I’ve always wanted to dive and love sharks.

“I’m a little bit scared, but excited as well. I did snorkelling on my honeymoon in the Caribbean and loved it.

“I love animals and have had them since I can remember. I’ve had one cat, Tinkerbell, for 10 years, and she came into my life when I needed someone. She makes me happy whenever I’m low.”

Mrs West has already raised £300 and will be holding a raffle and charity fundraiser at Llanyrafon Social Club at 2.30pm on Saturday, April 4.

For more information, call 07828196363.