Diplomats from the London embassies of several EU countries joined East Devon MP Simon Jupp on a tour of The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth.
The visitors from the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Germany and EU embassies, were accompanied by Mr Jupp, the Member of Parliament for East Devon. The recent visit was part of a tour of the South West region to raise the profile of the area, and to showcase the opportunities and attractions to the diplomats.
Set in the heart of the East Devon countryside, The Donkey Sanctuary is a leading visitor attraction in the South West, and last year attracted more than 400,000 visitors.
Accompanied by the charity’s Director of Advocacy & Campaigns, Ian Cawsey, the group were given a tour of sanctuary, with plenty of time to meet some of four-legged residents and hear about the work of the animal-welfare charity.
Ian Cawsey said: “We were delighted to be able to host this visit from such a distinguished delegation of European diplomats and that our local MP, Simon Jupp asked us to do so.
“The Donkey Sanctuary is the jewel in the crown of the South West and I know they all enjoyed their time with us, not just seeing the Visitors’ Centre, but learning about our wider work including Europe and other challenges that donkeys face in other parts of the world.
“Such visits help us to build more connections with people who can help us protect more donkeys and spreads the word that we have a beautiful location in Sidmouth that is open to visitors!”
Speaking after the visit, Mr Jupp said: “I want to thank the amazing staff and volunteers at The Donkey Sanctuary for giving our European friends such a warm welcome. The diplomats were extremely impressed by their hard work to improve the lives of donkeys across the globe.”
The EU delegates also had the chance to visit other locations in the South West, including Bristol and Exeter.
Marianne Steele, CEO of The Donkey Sanctuary added: “We were delighted to welcome Mr Jupp and the EU diplomats to The Donkey Sanctuary.
“The region has so much to offer visitors, and here at the Sanctuary, we are very lucky to be located in such a special place.”
For interviews, images and information please contact The Donkey Sanctuary press office on 01395 573124 or 07870 849563 (including out of hours) or send an email.
The Donkey Sanctuary is the world's largest equine welfare charity. Our vision is a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued. We run 10 sanctuaries around the UK and Europe, giving lifelong care to more than 7,000 donkeys and mules. Our hospital treats sick donkeys and trains vets both nationwide and worldwide. Our donkey-facilitated learning programme helps vulnerable children and adults develop life skills by connecting with donkeys on an emotional and physical level.
Please note that the name ‘The Donkey Sanctuary’ should not be abbreviated to ‘Donkey Sanctuary’, and the word ‘The’ should always appear with a capital ‘T’ as above.