AMIE the donkey faced a lonely Christmas after her life-long horse companion died.

So her owners handed her over to Margaret Green Animal Rescue so that she could be found a new friend.

Twenty-seven-year-old Amie, who has proved a hit with staff since her arrival at the Church Knowle sanctuary, is to be paired up with a horse called Angel in time for the festive season.

Manager Ellie Makin said that donkeys are intelligent and loyal animals which can pine for the loss of a friend.

At the moment sweet-natured Amie is happy to potter around her field grazing and munching on apples provided by staff. She may be put up for adoption in the future, on condition she has another horse or donkey for a companion.

She proved a huge hit when she appeared at the village Christmas fete which raised £621.87 for the charity.