What a warm greeting I received from a donkey called Ruby on Monday! It's been so hectic in the PR Office that I have been rushing from one job to the next, but I was stopped in my tracks when this beautiful dark brown youngster came up to me and rested her gorgeous head on my shoulder. I really do love it when donkeys do this as it's the best kind of cuddle I think you can get from them!

Do you remember the plight of Laurel, Hardy and Tim and their rescue from terrible conditions back in July 2009? Having spent over six months being nursed back to health by the staff at our holding base in Buxton, Derbyshire, the trio have arrived and would love to meet you here at the Sanctuary when you next visit.

Many of our visitors watch the donkeys in New Barn through our webcam where you can see around 47 donkeys all varying in age - just like Caramel, aged 29, who was relinquished into our care in 1999.

We find that the elderly donkeys or the ones, who find it hard to maintain weight, feel the cold and for this reason you may see them wearing rugs.

We've been drawn to some newspaper cuttings of late because a donkey named Rosie, cared for at an equine rescue centre in Derbyshire, is believed to be the world's oldest donkey, at the grand age of 54.

Our oldest donkey, out of the 2,218 we currently care for here at the Sanctuary, is Laz who is believed to be 50.

Whether you have recently acquired your donkey, are thinking of purchasing one in the future, or have been looking after them for years, we invite you to come and join two of our experts in donkey care and nutrition for a day of information and advice. The workshops are organised by our Welfare Department and are completely free to attend.

Whether you are an experienced equine owner, have newly acquired donkeys or are thinking of purchasing one of our four-legged friends - this day of revelation, fun and learning for you! The workshop is organised by our Welfare Department and is completely free to attend.