MESSAGES of support have poured in to Greenmeadow Community Farm after the stabbing of Cheeky the donkey last Friday.THE DONKEY Sanctuary has condemned the stabbing of Cheeky the donkey at Greenmeadow Community Farm last week.

Cheeky, who was one of The Donkey Sanctuary’s foster donkeys, was stabbed 12 times on Friday night in her stable at the Greenmeadow community farm in Cwmbran, possibly with a penknife. It is thought the weapon may have been a penknife which caused wounds to her stomach, rear and neck.

The Donkey Sanctuary’s welfare adviser has been monitoring Cheeky who is slowly recovering slowly and has started to graze again.

Michael Crane, from head of welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “Our hearts go out to poor Cheeky, who is lovingly cared for at Greenmeadow Community Farm through our fostering scheme.

“Her attack has horrified us – how anyone could inflict such suffering on any animal is beyond comprehension

“Our welfare adviser has been in regular contact with Greenmeadow Community Farm to help however possible.

“We have been assured by the police that this appalling attack is likely to be an isolated incident.”

The community farm has since stepped up security thanks to a donation of security cameras from Weston Security. At the farm yesterday, Torfaen council leader Bob Wellington was at the farm yesterday. He said: “I’m overwhelmed by the heart-warming response from the public following the attack on Cheeky, and I know the farm staff have taken comfort from the many messages of support they have received.”

“This was a disgusting, cowardly attack on an elderly, docile animal. The community farm is such a popular attraction but it is sadly blighted by regular damage and theft of the perimeter fence, which on top of being costly to replace may have also helped Cheeky’s attacker gain access to the farm.

“The staff at the farm are grateful to Weston Security for donating this equipment and everyone who has sent messages of support or pledged to donate money.”

Cheeky, 22, has lived happily at the farm since 2006, with friends Angel and Woody.

She has been used for education and animal welfare courses and always been popular with children and schools’ groups.

The Donkey Sanctuary is continuing to monitor her on the farm where she has lived so happily for so long and where she is receiving expert care and kindness.

If people would like to donate visit: https://www.civicaepay.co.uk/Torfaen/Webpay_Public/Webpay/Default.aspx

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call them on 101 quoting log 136 29/11/14