Lonely donkey 'in love' with new goat friends

A donkey left "lonely" after his goat friend died has been introduced to two new companions.

Harold, from Bitteswell, Leicestershire, lost his best friend - a goat called Billy - at Christmas.

An advert in a farm shop led to his owners being "inundated" with offers, with one from a woman who needed to rehome her goats due to ill health.

Sweepy and Fletcher have now met Harold, who has "taken to them", according to his owner Dot Smith.

Harold has been owned by Dot Smith for 18 years and is described as her "best friend"

Sally Sly, a friend of Sweepy and Fletcher's owner Susan, said: "She adores them but very sadly she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer just two weeks ago.

"I have been given the job of finding a new home and when I saw an article, something just told me this was right."

As soon as the two goats were introduced, Harold showed lots of interest and went over to nuzzle them.

Mrs Smith said: "Harold is my best friend, I have had him 18 years and he needs a friend.

"I knew as soon as they came in. Straight away Harold has taken to them like... whatever. He seems to love them."

Ms Sly said: "Fletcher and Sweepy love him, so it was really meant to happen. They all look so happy.

"Dear Susan - these really are her babies. She spends every day with them.

"So we have found a fabulous home and I know when I show her the photos she will be at peace, which is what she really wanted."