THIS Valentine s Day spare a thought for Red Rose. She s one of thousands of donkeys being lovingly cared for at the Sidmouth-based Donkey Sanctuary, a charity which relies entirely on donations to continue its work. Red Rose is 17-years old and lives at

THIS Valentine's Day spare a thought for Red Rose. She's one of thousands of donkeys being lovingly cared for at the Sidmouth-based Donkey Sanctuary, a charity which relies entirely on donations to continue its work.

Red Rose is 17-years old and lives at one of the Sanctuary's outlying farms near Harcombe - home to over 340 rescued and unwanted donkeys. Despite this farm not being open to the public, they don't miss out on fuss and cuddles thanks to the 12 dedicated staff who work there.

Katie Jones who is working this weekend says: "I'll be making sure Red Rose and her fellow friends receive an extra special Valentines cuddle and healthy carrot treat.

"Red Rose is a real sweetie and was named by our Founder, Dr Elisabeth Svendsen. She was taken in by the Sanctuary, along with five other donkeys, as their home, an animal sanctuary in Manchester, was closing in 2002. It's comforting to know that they all have a Sanctuary for life."

Amanda Gordon from the Sanctuary's Press Office says: "At times like these we are grateful to the supporters of our charity and send them our heartfelt thanks. We rely entirely on donations to carry out our work in 16 countries worldwide; providing refuge to donkeys like Red Rose, who often have no-where else to go, is an important part of our work."

To find out more about The Donkey Sanctuary's work or to make a donation, please visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk or telephone (01395) 578222.