9 November 2026
Wonderful Welsh supporter takes on 62-mile charity challenge with donkey Basil
A donkey lover from Ceredigion, has completed a 62-mile walking challenge to raise money for international working animal charity Brooke, with her donkey Basil joining her for some of the miles.
Claire Evans Watkin, 33, who has nine donkeys of her own, took part in Brooke’s Walk 62 Miles Challenge during October 2026 to help protect donkeys from the cruel skin trade.
Claire said: “I decided to take on the 62-mile challenge in October for the Brooke charity as I wanted to raise money to help to protect donkeys from the cruel skin trade. Another reason I wanted to take on this challenge is that I love donkeys. I have nine donkeys of my own and love being in their company, and they give me so much joy.”
Walking with her donkeys is already a favourite pastime for Claire, whose outings take her up mountains, across rivers and along gravel tracks, boggy areas and bridle paths. For the charity challenge, she walked both with Basil and on her own.
“We have seen some stunning views and also a lot of interesting animals on our journey. I have enjoyed walking with my donkey for Brooke. It has been great fun.”
A challenge to help fight the donkey skin trade
The nationwide challenge ran from 1 to 31 October 2026, inviting animal lovers to walk 62 miles anywhere, at their own pace, to help create a better future for working donkeys, horses and mules. Each participant was asked to raise £150.
It was inspired by the devastating impact of the global donkey skin trade, which threatens donkey populations and the livelihoods of communities that depend on them.
“More than six million donkeys are killed for their skins each year, devastating animals and the communities that depend on them. Funds raised will help protect donkeys from theft, support action against traffickers and provide emergency care for rescued animals. Together, we can walk towards a future where donkeys are safe from the skin trade”
