Plea for help as donkeys suffer in Israel and Gaza

Safe Haven for Donkeys was set up in Haywards Heath in 2000

A charity which cares for abandoned and injured donkeys in Israel, Gaza and Egypt, is calling on animal lovers to help raise "vital" funds.

The 25 Miles for 25 Years challenge marks a quarter of a century since Safe Haven for Donkeys, based in Haywards Heath, was set up.

To mark the anniversary, it is asking supporters to walk, run, cycle or swim a total of 25 miles before 31 October 2025.

Peter Egan, Downton Abbey and After Life actor and Safe Haven Patron, said the challenge was "a fun and inclusive way for all of us to help raise vital funds for this life-changing work".

The charity said working or abandoned donkeys in Gaza were often dehydrated, malnourished and victims of missile attacks.

Vet teams are based in all three locations to provide treatment to relieve pain and suffering, plus education to prevent those injuries and illnesses reoccurring.

The initiative is being supported nationally by the Donkey Breed Society (DBS).

Anna Harrison, veterinary advisor to Safe Haven for Donkeys and honorary vet at the DBS, said: "As someone who has seen first-hand the challenges donkeys face overseas through my work with Safe Haven, I think this challenge is a brilliant way of bringing those worlds together.

"Every mile completed will help give donkeys the chance of a better life."

Egan added: "Every mile we complete brings us one step closer to giving these animals the care, respect and kindness they deserve."