An animal sanctuary boss who stepped down after multiple animals were seized on welfare grounds has received an unexpected outpouring of public support.
More than 100 people have come out praising the work Lyz Hall has done at Hallswood Animal Sanctuary.
Ms Hall resigned from her role as director at the sanctuary after a police-led operation assisted by the RSPCA resulted in the removal of a number of animals. Some were euthanised after assessment by specialist vets.
However, many "devastated" supporters have come out in Ms Hall's defence. These include former volunteers at the sanctuary, and those who have brought injured animals there.
Bonnie Kumar, from Horsford, said: "I completely back Lyz and Hallswood Animal Sanctuary for the care, love and devotion they give to all animals.
"Quite frankly Lyz didn't deserve this treatment, but instead an award for everything she's done that many others wouldn't."
Rachel Louise Hoy, from Framingham Earl, said: "I have had nothing but positive experiences when I've spoken to Lyz and the sanctuary is her life.
"I have three foster kittens from Hallswood and when I collected them after their second vaccinations they were in a really good condition.
"I support Hallswood 100pc and will continue to do so."
Sally Donnelly has volunteered at Hallswood for the last four years and said: "I joined after taking a sick hedgehog to them.
"Animals have always been Lyz's number one concern and the other volunteers I work directly with are all amazing."
Judy Pegden, from Blakeney, said: "Liz has helped us many times taking feral cats.
"She has a big heart and I'm devastated this has happened to her when she's only wanted to help these animals."
Linda Roope, from Hellesdon, said: "Lyz was there all the time and would always take care of any animal in distress.
"Perhaps things weren’t perfect but she had the animal's welfare at heart and did her best with the funds available."
A statement released by Hallswood Animal Sanctuary last week said: "Between September 5 and 17 this year the police and RSPCA made multiple visits to the sanctuary to investigate concerns regarding animal welfare.
"During this police-led investigation, the RSPCA took away a number of animals for ongoing medical assessment, and euthanised several other animals on site."
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Following Ms Hall's resignation the sanctuary confirmed a new management team was in place and is cooperating fully with the authorities on the active investigation.
It is currently unclear why the visits to the sanctuary began. Many who claim to have known Ms Hall for years firmly oppose what has happened.
People posted on social media and also contacted this newspaper to demonstrate their support.
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Patricia Hoey first met Lyz 15 years ago and said: "A massive mistake has been made - it's a travesty.
"Lyz belongs at Hallswood with the amazing work she does and the bond she has with the animals is just lovely.
"I support her and hope she will be reinstated at the sanctuary soon."
Kat Ziaja, said: "Removing Lyz from the sanctuary is a crime - she is Hallswood.
"She's taken in injured hedgehogs and pigeons I've found over the last couple of years and was quick to collect them and provide updates."
Carly Everett, from Brundall, said: "I'm sad to see Lyz is stepping aside and she should hold her head high for the amazing job she's done.
"Her work hasn't gone unnoticed and it's clear to see she has so many supporters, who are thankful for her hard work and dedication."
The police have confirmed they are continuing to investigate individuals as a result of the raid.
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