In 2004, Doctor Elizabeth Svendsen liaised with Manchester City Council and Debdale Reservoir Allotments, run by Gorton Horticultural Society, to build a Donkey Centre on council and allotment land. The centre provided the highest care for rescued donkeys, with good diet, plenty of outdoor space, warm indoor quarters and the best veterinary care to ensure their long, happy lives. The centre was open to local school children, especially those facing life challenges such as learning and other disabilities. The mutual regard between children and donkeys was building confidence and happiness. There were also open events at Easter, Christmas and on Bank Holidays that engaged the whole community with the benefits of kind proximity to animals. 

Soon after Elizabeth Svendsen died in 2011, the EST Donkey Centre became one of several centres run by the Donkey Sanctuary charity. Soon, changes in the well established ethos were evident, with a marked decrease in local community engagement, including reduced contact with children who had previously enjoyed their friendship with the donkeys. 

This year, it The Donkey Sanctuary has announced that it intends to close several of its centres, including the one at Debdale, despite announcing millions of pounds in donations from well wishers. They have diverted all calls to their HQ in Sidmouth and discouraged staff and volunteers from talking to the public.

They speak of a consultation process, but this turns out to be an internal consultation. The Gorton community, including schools, faith groups, children and youth groups and hundreds of individuals wish to see the centre remains open and are willing to enter into a community partnership with the Donkey Sanctuary or take over the management of the Debdale Centre themselves if need be. 

We are asking the Donkey Centre to: 

Engage with Save Debdale Donkey Centre to discuss the options going forward and to work with us to do all we can between us to keep Debdale Donkey Centre open to ensure Donkey welfare and healthy human and animal relationships for all our futures.