Today's farm was Paccombe, tucked away ten minutes from the main sanctuary site and home of donkey behaviour training. Paccombe is an interesting Donkey Week farm because there is no donkey walking, but plenty of stalls (including games and regulars Cocoa's Handmade Chocolates), a BBQ, two different trailer ride routes and a barn full of donkeys waiting for cuddles. There was two fascinating talks; Dawn Vincent talked about her granny, Donkey Sanctuary founder Dr Elisabeth Svendsen, with lots of funny memories and lovely photos. Lots of tears around the barn remembering that amazing lady and people's own personal memories.
Then Alex Mayers gave a brilliant talk on the donkeys' contribution to humanity, often overlooked in the pursuit of relief of suffering. I am so in awe of the work Alex and his team does, going around the world seeing donkeys who are in pain, abused or exhausted needing help and then planning for that help with the owners/community/governments.
But we don't detract from the donkey cuddling. At Paccombe you are allowed in the barn with brushes to stroke and love your chosen donkey.
I was chosen by Larry, who obviously needed a nap as he fell asleep on my shoulder, and I interacted with up to a dozen donkeys, stroking and talking to them.
Additional unexpected photo op was with handsome donk Martin who obediently stood at the gate while we had our photo taken with him.
The two trailer rides were ‘up’ (longer) and ‘down’ and I just managed to catch the shorter ride before the end of the day. I know that route, but am constantly surprised at the beauty of the countryside around there.
And to finish the day it was skittles night for the Weekers. We are all pretty atrocious players but it's an entertaining way to spend an evening and boosts the economy for the local village hall. Along with a raffle (I won some choccies!) and a delicious hot and cold buffet it makes for a fun night. Sunday tomorrow; this week is going too fast!
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