Little donkey Esther would never have survived her horrendous neglect if it had not been for the love of her mother Martha.

Love was all Martha could offer as she was so hungry she was unable to produce milk to feed her baby, leaving two-month-old Esther barely able to stand.

But together they held on until they were rescued and now, over 10 years since their arrival at Redwings, these lovely donkeys remain inseparable, their ordeal meaning they have forged an unbreakable bond.

Just as in the human world, the animal kingdom is full of amazing mothers so this Mother’s Day we're asking our supporters to think about giving an alternative gift which will help ensure those like Martha will continue to receive the care and love they deserve.

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It was Martha's love that saved her foal Esther

Redwings has launched a special selection of Charity Gifts, which make a truly unique present for a loved one while supporting the 1,500 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in our care.

For each gift the purchaser gives the sanctuary’s residents, they will receive a beautiful card detailing how it will be used to help those in need and a felt pony or donkey to treasure.

Among the Charity Gifts supporters can choose to give is a donation of £20 to provide specialist tender loving care for a patient at the Redwings Horse Hospital or £45 to help keep a donkey warm with bedding and rugs.

Steph Callen, Redwings’ spokesperson, said: “The Sanctuary is full of wonderful mothers who have endured terrible suffering for the sake of their babies, just like Martha and Esther.

“By purchasing one of our new Charity Gifts, you’ll be offering a truly beautiful gift on behalf of your own mother or loved one in support of these amazing animals who are so deserving of tender loving care after enduring such awful starts in life.”

To find out more or to purchase a Charity Gift in time for Mother’s Day, call 01508 481000 or click here for more information.