Elisabeth Svendsen Trust

EST Belfast is calling on the fun loving public to adopt a donkey this Valentine's Day to help raise vital funds.

The centre is one of six located around the UK run by The Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys charity (EST), which provides riding therapy to over 1,000 children from locals schools and hospices every week.

Jennie Jepperson from Sidmouth, Devon, will be taking part in the 2012 London Marathon to raise funds for EST.

Jennie has been working as a centre co-ordinator at the Sidmouth EST centre for over two years and in that time has witnessed thousands of children receiving the benefits of riding therapy. Although Jennie is a keen runner, this will be her first marathon and she has been training hard for the event, knowing how many children will benefit from the funds that she raises.

Sidmouth residents are being invited to clear out their cupboards for EST Sidmouth's charity’s Table Top Sale on Saturday 21st January from 10am.

The Parents & Friends Association (PFA) at EST Sidmouth is organising the sale to raise funds for the centre, which is located in the grounds of The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth.

The sale will run from 10am until 1pm with refreshments available throughout the day. Admission and parking is free for buyers, and sellers will be charged at £5.00 per table.

It is with deep regret that we announce that our dear adoption donkey Busby had to be put to sleep on 21st December 2011 following a short period of ill-health.

Busby was a local boy, originally from Devon, before being relinquished to the Sanctuary 18 years ago. He spent some time in a foster home and on The Donkey Sanctuary farms, but really found his calling when he joined the Slade Centre’s team of riding therapy donkeys in 2001.

With his distinctive dark brown coat and lovely kind nature, Busby quickly became a firm favourite with staff and children alike. Even the youngest or most nervous rider was helped to overcome their fears as Busby would stand quietly and patiently whilst they stroked his velvety fur, until they were reassured that it was safe to ride on his back. Although himself a shy and initially timid donkey, Busby also became more confident and enjoyed the love and attention he received.

Take this opportunity to enjoy a delicious Indian meal and help raise funds for EST Leeds at the same time! Red Pepper Restaurant are kindly holding a second curry night in aid of EST Leeds Children and Donkey Centre, following the huge popularity of the first, held in their Alwoodley restaurant.

Tickets cost just £10 per person and includes poppadums and pickles, starter and main course plus rice or naan. 50% of the ticket sales will be donated to EST Leeds. To book your tickets, please call us on 0113 261 9249!