Donkleys Galore!

By Imogen Johnson

General news

10 March 2010 16:03

They’re big, hairy, loving and stubborn – but no, we’re not talking about your husband!  We’re actually talking about some special donkeys who’ll be attending this year’s Royal Cornwall Show.

Originating from France, this special breed of donkey called the ‘Poitou’ is taller and hairier than the Eeyore lookalikes we’re used to, giving them a highly individual look.

In 1986 when the breed was nearing extinction, their plight was brought to the attention of the Sidmouth-based Donkey Sanctuary by zoology staff at the University of Paris. The sanctuary has since been dedicated to safeguarding the breed’s future and has ensured that they will feature in this year’s Royal Cornwall Show area, The Donkey Domain.

Peter Daubney, a farm worker and groom at the sanctuary, has a close working relationship with these unusual donkeys and will be presenting them at the show, talking about their history and character.

“We have 21 Poitou and Poitou crosses at the sanctuary at present and they raise a lot of interest. People keep coming back to see them, time after time,” he says.
“They’re very different. They are loving, but they have a mind of their own. They’re stubborn. Just like me!”

The show will run over the 10th, 11th and 12th of June with plenty of things to do and see for all the family. For more information about the show visit www.royalcornwall.co.uk

Photo:  Peter Daubney with two Poitou crosses, Cocoa (left) and Fudge.