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A search has been launched after a fibreglass donkey was stolen from an agricultural show.
Dotty is the beloved mascot of the Brooke Sussex Group, an animal welfare organisation, and has helped them raise more than £140,000 for real donkeys working overseas.
Diane Price has been a dedicated volunteer for the organisation for more than 20 years and the Edenbridge and Oxted Show was just one of many events she has attended with Dotty.
The thieves managed to evade the 24 hour security at the two-day event, which took place on Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31.
Miss Price was shocked that someone had even thought of stealing the fibre glass figure. She said: “It’s not the money I’m worried about, it’s the principle of the thing, it’s a violation of our efforts and what we stand for. I just can’t believe someone would steal from a charity at an event where people are supposed to be having fun.”
Miss Price's daughter, Jemma, took to Facebook to explain the huge sentimental value Dotty has. She said: “Myself, my sisters and our dearest Dad who we so sadly lost a couple of weeks ago had clubbed together to buy this special donkey for my Mum a couple of years ago for Christmas and she put it to good use out on site with her charity stall.”
“Any information or help in bringing the Brooke donkey home would be most appreciated. Reward offered!”
All the supporters and members of the Sussex group are hoping that Dotty is returned safe and sound. A spokesman said: “We were shocked and saddened to hear about Dotty going missing – Diane has been such a great fundraiser and we know how much both Dotty and Mr Brookey mean to her. Let’s get her back!”
The Brooke works in 11 different countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Kent and Surrey Police have been approached for further information.
For more information click here.
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