A donkey sanctuary in Shropshire has announced a temporary closure due to significant weather-related damage. The sanctuary has incurred £50,000 worth of destruction, attributed to the wettest winter on record.
Severe Weather Impact
A series of storms and excessive rainfall have resulted in multiple issues at the Severn Valley Rescue. Key problems include:
- Wrecked fences
- Collapsed gates
- Waterlogged fields
As a result, the sanctuary has halted public access to ensure safety for both visitors and animals. This decision has prompted the cancellation of upcoming half-term open days in February.
Emotional Toll on Staff
Amanda Ball, the founder and trustee of the sanctuary, expressed her distress over the situation. She stated, “I spent the day in tears and I am unsure whether we can even recover from this.” The organization, known for caring for disabled animals such as alpacas, pigs, and ponies, now faces a challenging recovery ahead.
Looking Ahead
The sanctuary’s management is now focused on assessing the damage and planning necessary repairs. They hope to restore access for the public and the animals as soon as possible.
For updates on the situation, visit El-Balad for continued coverage on the sanctuary’s progress and plans for reopening.
