A gift in your Will could help change the future for animals in need. It’s a simple act that can make a lasting difference, and bring real peace of mind.
Did you know that in recent years, over 80% of Little Valley’s income has come from gifts left in Wills? It’s an incredible figure and one that speaks volumes about the kindness and generosity of our supporters.
We know writing a Will isn’t exactly top of most people’s to-do list. But it can actually be one of the most empowering things you do.
Many of us treat things like home insurance or MOTs as essential life admin. Writing a Will deserves a spot on that list too. It’s not just about preparing for the future—it’s about shaping it. And for the animals at Little Valley, it could mean the difference between rescue and refuge.
When writing your will, please think of Little Valley, if you are able.
If you have any questions about will writing or leaving a gift for Little Valley, please contact Hayley, who will be happy to help and point you in the right direction. Email giftsinwills@spca-littlevalley.org.uk
Your gift ensures that animals have a safe haven where they receive the care and love they deserve.
Contributions help cover veterinary treatments and medical interventions for our residents.
Support facilitates the process of finding loving forever homes for our animals.
When Beryl Gooding passed away in 2019, she left behind far more than a financial gift—she left a legacy of kindness, compassion, and unwavering support for the animals she loved.
Beryl had been part of the Little Valley family for many years. A devoted volunteer and long-serving Trustee, she played a hands-on role in our Budleigh charity shop, working closely with fellow Trustee Pat Pollock. Her commitment was tireless, her energy infectious, and her belief in animal welfare unshakeable.
Born and raised in Teignmouth, Beryl spent most of her working life at Lloyds Bank, with a notable chapter serving in the Wrens (Women’s Royal Naval Service). As a Senior Aircraft Mechanic working on Sea King helicopters, Beryl travelled extensively and formed lifelong friendships—including one with the mother of a young J.K. Rowling. She often spoke fondly of those years and treasured the memories they brought.
Later, she met her husband Gordon, and together they built a life grounded in a shared devotion to animals. Their home was a haven for stray cats who, having wandered into their garden, were soon welcomed with open arms and a warm bed. Even after Gordon’s death in early 2019, Beryl continued to give her time and heart to animal causes.
In her Will, Beryl chose to leave one-fifth of her estate to RSPCA Little Valley, which was a significant amount for which we will forever be grateful for. Her generous legacy gift has helped us continue to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome countless animals in need.
It’s thanks to gifts like Beryl’s that we’re able to give every cat the best possible second chance. Each legacy helps us provide warmth, veterinary care, and time for healing—and it means no cat is ever rushed or forgotten.
Beryl’s kindness will live on in every purr, every comforted paw, and every cat that finds safety and love here at Little Valley.
If, like Beryl, you believe in giving animals a brighter future, you can leave a gift in your Will to help ensure they always have someone fighting in their corner.
If you have any questions or need further information about leaving a legacy, please reach out to us.
Alternatively, you can email us at:
giftsinwills@rspca-littlevalley.org.uk
If you’re administering an estate that includes a bequest to Little Valley Animal Shelter (officially known as RSPCA Devon Branch), please ensure that the legacy specifies our branch to benefit the local animals directly.
RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter
Black Hat Lane
Bakers Hill
Exeter, EX2 9TA
