It’s the time of year that the Donkers look forward to. It’s the hottest June since time began (nearly) but they have still got their winter coats. Helping them shed this weight and density is essential- and it’s therapeutic and enjoyable.

The trouble is that the Mother donker doesn’t like being groomed- a throwback to her previous owners I suspect, as a rescue donkey who knows what she endured. She uses her backside to warn me that she is anxious before she tries to squash me against the fencing

The lighter coloured daughter loves it, so I use her to train her Mother, which is a complete reversal of role.

As the grooming takes place Mother donkey edges closer and closer, she is clearly asking me to groom her – but will she let me?