Donkeys getting into the festive spirit as sanctuary set to reopen for visitors throughout December

After a stop-start year for Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary, volunteers are delighted to be able to reopen and welcome visitors for weekends and Wednesdays until the end of the year.

Timed visiting slots are open for booking to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for visitors and staff, and social distancing measures have been taken throughout the centre.

Volunteer Phill Upshall said: ‘The donkeys have so missed meeting our lovely visitors and donkey adopters and look forward to bringing some Christmas cheer and thanking everyone who continues to donate and keep them safe.

‘Ollie and Rusty are all dressed up in their Christmas hats ready to bring some festive fun to the residents of a local care home.’

Opening days throughout this month are December 5, 6, 9, 12, 13, 16, 19, 20, 23, 24, 27, 28 and 30 so there are plenty of opportunities to see the gentle animals at the sanctuary.

Visitor slots are filling up quickly so the volunteers have advised early booking of visits over the festive period to avoid disappointment.

The booking line is 07720 204685 during office hours, if there is no number then leave a message and someone will return the call.

Full details of the booking process and for the online shop for any last-minute donkey themed gifts or adoption packs are on haylingislanddonkeys.co.uk or visit the sanctuary’s Facebook page for pictures and updates.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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