A cherished animal sanctuary in Chester has successfully completed essential roof repairs, thanks to a generous donation from a local housing provider. The £500 contribution from Redrow’s Chester community fund has enabled Lache Animal Sanctuary, which serves as a retirement haven for donkeys, to address a long-standing issue with a leaking roof.
Situated within the local community, the Lache Animal Sanctuary—affectionately referred to as “The Donkey Field”—has long been a favourite among residents. The sanctuary provides a safe and peaceful environment for elderly donkeys, many of whom spend their final years there. However, maintaining the sanctuary’s ageing facilities has proven challenging, particularly with a roof that had begun to leak due to missing tiles.
Day-to-day operations at the sanctuary, including the cost of animal feed, hay, and rent, are largely covered by the efforts of volunteers and through community fundraising. This grassroots approach, while effective for covering basic needs, often leaves little room for unexpected expenses, such as emergency repairs.
A representative from Chester South Alliance, the organisation affiliated with the sanctuary, expressed gratitude for the support received from Redrow, noting that without the donation, the roof repair would likely have remained out of reach. The sanctuary’s caretakers, two devoted pensioners, have long shouldered the responsibility of looking after the animals and maintaining the site, but the financial burden of larger repairs has always been a concern.
“The sanctuary relies heavily on the goodwill of the community,” the representative explained. “Local residents regularly contribute spare food like carrots and apples, and nearby shops often donate surplus items. However, when it comes to more significant maintenance work, we sometimes struggle to find the necessary funds.”
Redrow’s involvement in the project is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities, particularly in areas where it is actively involved in development. The company is currently building new homes at Kings Moat Garden Village, just a short distance from the sanctuary. A spokesperson for Redrow emphasised the company’s satisfaction in being able to help a much-loved local institution.
“The Donkey Field is a cherished part of the community,” the spokesperson said. “It’s wonderful to see families enjoying the sight of the donkeys in such a peaceful setting. We’re pleased that our contribution has helped secure a dry and safe home for these animals.”
The recent roof repair is a significant milestone for the sanctuary, ensuring that the donkeys can continue to enjoy their retirement in comfort. However, the sanctuary’s continued success depends on ongoing community support and volunteer efforts. The sanctuary’s reliance on donations and local goodwill underscores the importance of community involvement in maintaining such cherished local amenities.
The roof repair, made possible by Redrow’s contribution, marks an important step forward for the sanctuary. With this immediate issue resolved, the focus can now return to the primary mission of caring for the retired donkeys. The sanctuary serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that community spirit plays in preserving local heritage and supporting animal welfare.
Looking ahead, the sanctuary aims to continue improving its facilities and ensuring the well-being of its residents. As with any charitable endeavour, future challenges will undoubtedly arise, whether related to infrastructure, animal care, or general upkeep. Continued community engagement will be crucial in meeting these challenges and securing the sanctuary’s future.
In a time when large-scale developments often dominate the local landscape, the story of the Lache Animal Sanctuary highlights the impact that small, community-driven initiatives can have. The successful repair of the sanctuary’s roof is a testament to the power of collective effort, demonstrating that even modest donations can make a significant difference.
Thanks to the support of Redrow and the dedication of volunteers, the Lache Animal Sanctuary can now look forward to a more secure future. As the donkeys continue to roam their familiar field, the sanctuary stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when communities come together to support the causes they care about.
