The Flicka Foundation, which runs the donkey and horse sanctuary in Mabe, threw open its gates and welcomed the crowds to its recent annual summer open day.

The weather was kind which encouraged people to turn out in force to support the charity and donate several thousands of pounds by the end of the day. Organisers say they were "thrilled" that so many people took up the chance to meet some of the rescued animals and enjoy a cream tea, entertainment from the Odd Quad Quartet, who gave their time for free, and browse the stalls.

The money raised will go to Flicka's urgent vet care costs appeal which was launched recently to cover the costs of expensive veterinary care for the animals that live at the sanctuary. The charity has rescued an unprecedented number of animal in the past year and the subsequent high number of veterinary, farrier and equine dentist call-outs to the sanctuary have already exceeded their animal healthcare budget for the whole year.

It can easily cost over £3,000 to rescue one donkey or horse and Flicka's monthly vet bills for ongoing care, check-ups, medications, X-rays and vaccinations now average around £4,000. Charity director, Judy Giles, said: “We urgently need to raise the funds to be able to continue to offer rescued donkeys a home at our sanctuary and to offer a high level of care to our existing residents.

"We are a relatively small charity, but receive calls to rescue donkeys and horses on a regular basis. We are simply not able to help them all due to a lack of funds, so our special open days are crucial to our work and we are so grateful to everyone who came along to support us.”

To find out more about the appeal and Flicka’s work visit flickafoundation.org.uk/vet-care-costs.