Donkey stabbed a dozen times returns to starring role

A donkey stabbed last November has made a full recovery — although police are still appealing for information about the attack.

Cheeky, a 23-year-old jenny, was stabbed a dozen times on 29 November — just before she was to star in a Christmas nativity at Greenmeadow Community Farm in Cwmbran near Newport.

Despite missing out on her nativity role, she was back to full health in time to take part in Easter church services earlier this month.

The two 17-year-old boys arrested afterwards were bailed pending forensic examinations, as there wasn’t sufficient evidence to charge them.

Gwent Police has said no further action will be taken against the teenagers but enquiries are still ongoing.

“We were very disappointed no-one was convicted of this terrible attack,” said Kate Holly, the farm’s commercial manager.

Cheeky needed 24-hour nursing after the stabbing.

“Initially we thought she wouldn’t make it, but with the care of staff she pulled through,” said Ms Holly.

The story of Cheeky’s attack was picked up by the media globally.

“We had messages of support from around the world, including donations from America, Australia and Singapore,” added Ms Holly.

Increased security has been installed since the attack, as the donkey was stabbed in her stable.

A local company Weston Security, founded by Falklands war veteran Simon Weston, put in extra CCTV cameras for free.

The council-owned farm hopes to use donations to improve fencing and build new stables for its three foster donkeys, one Shire horse and several Shetlands.

The farm has 70,000 visitors annually and at Easter more than 2,000 people came to see the animals.

On Easter Monday Cheeky starred in the Easter bonnet parade, as well as her weekend took part in church services at St Mary’s in Malpas and All Saints church in Brynglas.

“We are delighted she is back to her old cheeky self,” said Kate Holly.

The police are still appealing for information about the incident and are urging the public to contact them on 101 quoting the log reference number 136 29/11/14.

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