Thousands of pounds raised in "heart warming response" to keep Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary afloat during winter

In just over a week, 329 people have donated a staggering total of £11,250 after extreme weather has resulted in the temporary closure of Hayling Island Donkey Sanctuary.

Located in Mill Rythe Lane, the sanctuary launched a GoFundMe page on December 7 following a loss of income due to waterlogged fields and flooding, presenting “greater challenges”.

A spokesperson for the sanctuary previously said: “Caring for donkeys that originate from dry arid conditions is hard enough in this country but with the recent extreme weather conditions it has given us greater challenges.

“Flooded areas and waterlogged fields has made opening to visitors impossible which has impacted on the sanctuary’s Christmas season and preparation for the real winter.

“Rising costs of feed stuff and no income from open days we decided to set up a GoFund me campaign to try and help give the donkeys what they need - and wow what a heart warming response so far, although this is just a short term fix and the challenges are always there, support for these wonderful animals, however, is encouraging and gives a sparkle of hope.”

The centre, which is run by a team of volunteers, currently looks after 33 donkeys which currently have no turnout due to their paddocks being under water meaning the supply of straw is already being quickly used up.

The GoFundMe page said: “We are on this platform desperately needing your help and support to get us through the winter months.

“With the heavy persistent rain of late and the sanctuary being flooded out we have been forced to close to visitors, which means no income stream.”

For more information about the fundraiser, click here.