A therapy donkey who has cloaked up more than 250 visits to elderly residents over the last decade has made his final visit to a Capel Hendre care home.

At the grand age of 25, Enoch the donkey is retiring from his life on the road and his final visit was to a delighted audience at Llys Newydd on Easter Monday.

Enoch, who is a sanctuary fostered donkey, has touched the lives of thousands of adults, teenagers and children through visits to hospices, hospitals, nursing homes, schools and youth projects.

Activities co-ordinator Wendy Piekarski said: “Pet therapy is really good for the resident and it was so lovely to see them all smiling.

“They all enjoy Enoch coming to visit them and will all be sad that he won’t be coming again.”

He currently heads up a team of animals at Bryndafydd Animal Assisted Therapy that are sponsored by Mollichaff donkey. He is now in the process of handling over the reigns to fellow donkeys Polo and Cariad and Robbie the miniature Shetland pony, who will carry on his good work across Carmarthenshire.

All three equines will now build upon the excellent reputation established by Enoch enabling him to relax and enjoy his retirement although he will stay at Bryndafydd Base to greet youngsters taking part in youth projects.

Proud foster owner Ann slater said: “I will miss working with Enoch so much particularly in very sensitive areas such as end of life visits where I’ve been privileged to witness some intensely moving and poignant moments.

“These have given me great comfort knowing that Enoch has brought such joy to an individual at the end of their life that really is something very special.”

To celebrate his retirement, Enoch will take pride of place at top table in The Donkey Breed Society’s Welsh Members’ Golden Jubilee celebrations on June 10 at The Cottage in Llandeilo.

Attendees will be able to meet Enoch and Polo and learn more about the Donkey Breed Society, the Donkey Sanctuary and Enoch’s therapy work.

The afternoon will also include a raffle and the chance to win a donkey experience for two with Enoch and Friends and the opportunity to shop for donkey inspired gifts and crafts.