My name's Mel and I was lucky enough to gain a ballot place for the London Marathon and I wanted to use this opportunity to raise money for a cause very close to my heart, The Donkey Sanctuary.

My love for donkey's stems from my Nan, they were her favourite animal and she had plenty of donkey ornaments throughout her house. I remember visiting the Simouth Donkey Sanctuary as a child and she would frequently take day trips there to visit these amazing animals. Sadly she is no longer with us but my family and I still enjoy days out there visiting our adopted donkey Ashley and the rest of the herd.

The Donkey Sanctuary was founded in 1969 and supports projects in 27 countries. They ensure that donkeys in the UK always have a place to go if they need one, as well as making sure that working donkeys in other countries get the care they need and deserve. There are also 6 donkey assisted therapy centres throughout the UK which provide therapeutic care for children and adults with additional needs. The Donkey Sanctuary relies entirely on donations and here is an example of what your donations would enable them to do,

£5 - in Egypt will buy 5 donkey fly masks which will prevent injury. In hot countries flies can cause painful, eye infections.

£12 - in the UK will provide 2 weeks of soft wood shavings to use as bedding for sick and injured donkeys.

£15 - will buy a pair of riding reins for a donkey assisted therapy centre.

£20 - will pay for 1 farrier treatment in the UK, donkeys' hooves should be checked and trimmed every 6 - 10 weeks.

£60 - covers the cost for 2 heat lamps ensuring sick and elderly donkeys in the UK are kept warm and comfortable.

Anything you are able to donate will be greatly appreciated by myself, the charity and of course the donkeys :)