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Donkey Autumn arrives in time for Christmas (From The Bolton News)
Donkey Autumn arrives in time for Christmas
9:40am Friday 20th November 2009
CHRISTMAS has come early this year at Smithills Open Farm.
For staff and visitors are celebrating the latest addition to the farmyard family — a baby donkey called Autumn.
Her mum, eight-year-old Sally, gave birth on Remembrance Sunday as visitors to the farm, in Smithills Dean Road, looked on.
The foal will stay with her mother in a separate pen for about six months. Then she will be introduced to the other donkeys on the farm.
Owner Anthony Grimshaw’s partner Rebecca Hall was present for the birth. She said: “We just stood back and let her get on with it. Once she started there was no stopping her.
“Autumn had huge ears which were practically horizontal. She’s grown into them though and she is very sweet. She was up and walking within minutes.
“They are getting on really well. Both are very friendly with visitors.”
The farm is encouraging schools and families to visit in the coming weeks so children can learn about the animals in the traditional nativity.
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NEW ARRIVAL: Baby donkey Autumn is the latest addition to Smithills Open Farm
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