TWO donkeys - one of whom was ill-treated on a farm - have found a loving new home at a Fritton sanctuary. Flo, aged six and Barney, three, have been taken in by Redwings and are homed at its Caldecott visitor centre near Great Yarmouth.

Their former owner had discovered Flo in a pitiful state, suffering pneumonia and respiratory problems. She helped Flo get treatment and later got Barney as a companion.

But a change in circumstances meant she could no longer finance their costs.

Redwings stepped in to help, and hopes people will pay the centre a visit to enable work to protect animals like Flo and Barney to continue.

The centre opened its doors to the public to begin the summer season last weekend.

Lynn Cutress, chief executive, said: “Donkeys need specialist care and are a real long-term commitment, as they are capable of reaching over 40 years old. Unlike some of our horses and ponies, donkeys are not re-homed here – once they are settled they remain.”

The duo brings Redwings’ resident donkey total to 46.

Entry is free, and as well as getting up close and personal with horses, ponies, mules and donkeys, the visitor centre also has a caf�, play area and interactive educational zone.

www.redwings.org.uk/visiting/caldecott -visitor-centre/