16-05-2025
'Beloved' donkey born at popular farm park dies aged 18
A Swindon-born donkey who has spent the last 18 years greeting visitors at Roves Farm Park has died.
Jimmy the donkey was born at Roves Farm just outside of Swindon on March 18, 2007, to mum Hetty, and has been brought up under the supervision of the farm park employees ever since.
The "friendly and stubborn" character has seen generations of Swindonians pass through the park, and has been remembered by both staff and visitors for his love of carrots.
Jimmy leaves behind one brother, Bobby, who is now the only donkey left at Roves Farm.
Sharing the news, a spokesperson for the popular tourist attraction said: "It is with very heavy hearts we have to let you know that our lovely donkey Jimmy has passed away.
"He was a very friendly boy, if a little stubborn at times.
"He leaves behind his brother Bobby, who is being well looked after by the team with lots of fuss.
Jimmy and Bobby were Roves Farm's only donkeys (Image: Roves Farm) "Bobby is currently in the activity barn where he can receive plenty of extra attention and has our group of bottle-fed lambs for company."
The park has confirmed that Jimmy was cared for and supported by Equine Valley Vets in his final days, and Roves Farm will be looking for a new companion for his brother Bobby "very soon."
Reacting to the news, one ex-staff member at Roves Farm said: "I have lots of happy memories of brushing and chatting to him when I worked there.
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"He was a really lovely boy, and yes, he could be very stubborn.
"Sending loads of love and hugs to you all."
One Swindon resident, 18, who says she remembers regularly visiting Jimmy at the park as a small child, added: "It almost feels like I grew up with him.
"Such sad news for Roves Farm and Swindon today."
