I now only have just over 3 weeks to go before my Dublin Marathon challenge. The weather has not been too kind and on many of occasions now I have been soaking wet or knee deep in mud. On one race we had to cross a stream which was freezing cold and fast flowing as it had rained all day the day before. But it's all good fun really.
Become a fundraiser
With so many donkeys needing help in the UK and overseas, The Donkey Sanctuary is always grateful for any assistance you may be able to give in raising much-needed funds. We are fortunate to have a large group of voluntary fundraisers who kindly help us in very many ways, this could be anything from a coffee morning every month, to an annual gala ball. All we ask for is as little or as much time as you feel you can give because every single penny assists us in our vital work.
We would be delighted to give you any advice, support and assistance you may require. A fundraising pack is available on request and we produce a bi-annual voluntary fundraisers' newsletter to keep you up to date with all the latest news and views. We will also supply you with a copy of our fundraising guidelines leaflet which has been drawn up for the benefit of both you and our charities, outlining rules and regulations which must be complied with.
Remember to always keep the 'fun' in fundraising.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer fundraiser, or have any questions, please contact us.
Becky's marathon inspired by donkeys
In two weeks’ time a Newcastle lady is running the BUPA Great North Run in aid of two charities, including The Donkey Sanctuary, based near Sidmouth in Devon.
A tough challenge ahead
My name is Donna and I'm 27 years old. I have worked for The Donkey Sanctuary at East Axnoller Farm near Beaminster in Dorset for just over 3 years now. I love my job and the variety it throws at me, from standing cuddling up to the older donkeys, to the challenge of gaining the trust of younger and nervous donkeys.
Celebrating with the donkeys
25 years to this day, Ray and Heather took their wedding vows and to mark their Silver Wedding Anniversary, they came along to become donkey carers for the day. Having supported the Sanctuary for many years, it was also their first visit.
Donkeys benefit from Great Glen Trek
A Police Officer from Walsall has recently completed a trek along the Great Glen Way raising over £400 for The Donkey Sanctuary which prevents the unnecessary suffering of donkeys around the world.
Marie's special birthday cake
Marie Lee recently celebrated her 40th birthday with a party and asked friends and family for donations in lieu of gifts to help raise funds for the Sanctuary. Before the guests left, they all shared a slice of Marie's birthday cake which had been beautifully decorated with a picture of her very much loved donkeys - Blister and Joss-George.
Tough challenge
Well, my original description of the Grizzly as cold, wet, windy, muddy, slippery, demanding and strength sapping were absolutely correct. In all truth, Sunday's weather was quite kind, despite a strong wind; there were only a few wintery showers and the occasional hail storm which did make the ground very slippery and the bog section of the course even wetter and colder than I had hoped for.
The Grizzly ... a pain in the neck!
Best laid plans of mice, men and donkey trainers go amiss. I am beginning to fear the decision to have chosen to take part in the Grizzly. As mentioned in my previous blog, I was about to begin my training schedule on Saturday, but unfortunately, on Friday evening, I managed to trap a nerve in my neck causing me considerable pain and the slightly strange look of someone who's head doesn't turn independently of their body. Not good for those about to try and start training.
The Grizzly ... trying to make a difference
Cold, windy, wet, muddy, slippery, demanding and strength sapping, are some of the words that could describe The Grizzly Run which really does go cross country as well as running along shingle beaches for a distance of about 20 miles. Knowing all this, why have I volunteered myself!
Spanish trekker's diary
After months of hard work fundraising and long walks in training for the Donkey Sanctuary Spanish trek, the day finally arrived for myself, Laura Beer and Pam Smiley to meet at Gatwick. We quickly dropped off our small but surprisingly heavy bags to free us up to buy a few last minute essentials and some strong coffee, it having been an early start. In no time at all we were in Malaga airport to meet up with our guides for the week, Pete and Chantal.
