HOLLY Azmeh and Amy Parton have been busy feeding carrots to the newest arrival at their school - Rodney the donkey.
Rodney has his own paddock and shelter at Smallwood Primary, where he is the centre of attention with his young fans.
Rodney was given to headteacher Pat McDonnell by a woman who is moving house and bought the donkey two years ago at a market in Ireland.
He was in a very poor condition, but was lovingly nursed back to health by the woman, and is now enjoying a new life at Smallwood.
"The children bring carrots for Rodney every day, and they really enjoy caring for him," said Mrs McDonnell.
"Our parents have also taken him to their hearts, with David Young building a shelter for him, and another parent bringing in a coat for him."
Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article