The diet donkeys have done a deal with the Events and Activities donkeys and swapped their centrally positioned Shelter 1, for Shelter 4 and its wonderful sea-views. And it was here Phil and I found them all today - although the sea-view was somewhat swallowed up in sea fog!

We were met at the door by Jim, Alvin, Thistle, Lizzie and Daniel P while the others were either watching the seagulls out on the field or were mooching and munching through the thick barley straw. All that is, except for Ponk!

Ponk is a relatively new member of the diet donkey group, having moved down from Oakley Barn earlier in the year. He is a confident young donkey who used to be part of the Sanctuary's show team – and indeed won a few awards at the Devon County Show a couple of years or so ago! I also understand that Ponk was quite a favourite with Dr S – and as I’ve got to know Ponk a little better, I can understand why Dr S was so fond of him. He is quite a character!

Anyway, as Phil and I set about brushing the other donkeys, Ponk appeared as if by magic by my side and plonked his head on my shoulder. As I bent down to brush Jim’s legs, Ponk shifted his head to the middle of my back. As I was grooming I noticed Alvin heading our way – and true to form, he carefully rested his head on Ponk’s back!

And that’s how the grooming sessions with this group of donkeys usually goes! I groom a donkey, Ponk comes and rests his head on my back or shoulder and Alvin either rests his head on Ponk – or on the donkey I’m grooming! It’s our little routine – and you know what? I rather like it!