A BLACK foal, born at Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary last month, has been named Chris, in memory of a member of staff who died last November.

A BLACK foal, born at Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary last month, has been named Chris, in memory of a member of staff who died last November.

Chris Hewlett had worked in the charity's Education and Activities department before losing his battle with cancer at the age of 56. He was described as having a "friendly and caring nature" and was well-liked by staff.

Janice Aherne, who worked with Chris for eight years says: "He was a multi-talented, hard-working person, with diverse skills and considerable knowledge of the environment and local wildlife. A kind, sensitive and diligent work colleague with a warm sense of humour, he is sadly missed at the Sanctuary."

The jet-black foal, named in his memory, was born on April 8 after his mother Cudos, was one of 18 donkeys to be rescued from the Yorkshire area last November. The owner was prosecuted by the RSPCA for neglect.

When she was rescued, Cudos was in-foal and suffering with a serious infestation of lice and mites. Her hooves had also been neglected making it difficult for her to walk.

The care and attention of Sanctuary staff have bought Cudos back to health and supported her through the birth of her new foal.

Cudos and Chris are being cared for at Brookfield Farm, one of the Sanctuary's outlying farms near Honiton, which is not open to the public.