A charity says it is 'incredibly sad' after one of its vehicles used to transport donkeys was stolen in Tameside.
An equine transporter belonging to The Donkey Sanctuary is believed to have been taken from outside the Premier Inn, in Denton, overnight between Monday and Tuesday (April 19 and 20).
The empty vehicle, which was parked during an overnight stop, was due to collect a donkey from the charity’s Manchester sanctuary in Abbey Hey to be taken to its international headquarters in Devon.
Hannah Bryer, head of welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “We’re incredibly sad that someone has chosen to target The Donkey Sanctuary like this.
"We are a charity that relies entirely on donations, so we can be there for donkeys in greatest need.”
Greater Manchester Police is investigating the theft of the white Peugeot Equitrek Boxer van, registration number YJ69 EFY.
The vehicle is branded with a logo for The Donkey Sanctuary, which runs 10 sanctuaries across the UK and Europe, giving lifelong care to more than 7,000 donkeys and mules.
As well as treating sick donkeys, the charity also trains up vets and runs a learning programme to help vulnerable children and adults develop life skills by connecting with donkeys on an emotional and physical level.
Worldwide, The Donkey Sanctuary runs programmes for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation, and those used in the production of meat and skin.
Anybody with information about the stolen vehicle is urged to contact Greater Manchester Police on 101, quoting the crime reference number 459 of April 20.
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