County donkey sanctuary issues cash appeal

An animal rescue centre near Bridgnorth has launched a £350,000 appeal to help secure the future of the donkeys it cares for.

Shropshire Donkey Rescue needs the cash to help fund a move to a new location on the edge of Bridgnorth. The sanctuary, which was set up nearly two years ago, is currently based at Billingsley. Amanda Ball, founder of the charity, said of the move: "It's because we have had so many rescue donkeys come in.

"We need more land and we need car parking space.

"We want to move somewhere where we can open to the public five or six days a week. We try and open every Sunday from Easter to September."

Contracts are due to be exchanged shortly on the land, the location of which has not yet been revealed, with a move expected in the summer.

Miss Ball said: "It all began in July 2008 when we came across One-Eyed Jack, a very thin, neglected, little donkey who had been abandoned in the West Midlands. He was infested with worms and lice, had long overgrown hooves, and as his name suggests, he had lost an eye.

"With help from the public, we managed to raise the funds to get him treated, and he is now enjoying a very happy life in the Shropshire countryside.

"Since the rescue of Jack, we have saved a further 24 donkeys from neglect, abuse and slaughter and we are now desperately appealing for your help to raise £350,000 to ensure the donkeys can stay living in Shropshire and enjoying the gentle life they so deserve and allow visitors to come and see them.

"Shropshire Donkey Rescue is relocating to new premises and we are able to offer the chance for you to have a fruit tree dedicated in your honour.

"For a minimum donation of £495 you can have a tree planted as a gift for someone special, for yourself, or maybe in memory of a much loved family member or pet. This is a wonderful everlasting tribute in a peaceful location, surrounded by our gorgeous donkeys and other rescue animals."

For a minimum donation of £995 people can also get a personalised bench to place at the sanctuary. Applications for trees and benches must be received by March 19. Any donations should be sent to Shropshire Donkey Rescue, Brickyard Farm, Billingsley, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV16 6PH.

By Lisa Rowley