A DALES entrepreneur is striving to help working equines in need across the world.

Hannah Russell, of Hawes, is best-known for being the author of books about her miniature Shetland pony Little Alf.

For several years she has supported the Brooke charity - which helps working animals - and became a Youth Ambassador in early 2019, before travelling to Kenya to see the charity’s work.

Ms Russell has now released a new hoodie featuring a donkey on the front in aid of Brooke and £5 from each sale goes directly to the charity.

The Northern Echo:

She decided to create the hoodie also in tribute to her own four legged pets as she found herself seeking the support of her animals during periods of lockdown and ill health, having undergone treatment for Sarcoma in the spring.

She said: “Like many, I’ve really leaned on the emotional support of my pets this year and have relished the extra time I’ve been able to spend with them.

"As such, I felt it was only right to give something back and provide support to those animals who need it most.

"Although at times it has felt as though the whole world has hit the pause button, working horses, donkeys and mules have continued to provide a lifeline to their communities. I’m proud to be supporting this brilliant cause.”

A Brooke survey earlier this year found that almost two in three people felt that the added time spent together during lockdown had given them a greater understanding of their pet.

Whilst lockdown has seen many of us in this country spend extra time at home, working horses, donkeys and mules have continued to play an essential role in ensuring their communities still have access to food, water and medical supplies.

The hoodies, which are available in heather grey and orange crush, can be purchased from here