A delicious brew in the afternoon sun keeps donkeys warm as snow covers The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth

Although the site has been closed to visitors yesterday and today because of the heavy snow, dedicated staff are there to ensure the donkeys have all they need to withstand the cold weather.

Donkeys are not naturally suited to freezing, damp conditions having evolved in parts of the world where the environment is hot and arid.

Read more: In pictures: Sidmouth sees heavy snowfall overnight.

Making sure they have adequate shelter, hardstanding and plenty of dry hay, is very important to keep them healthy and well during winter.

Like many of us when the temperature plummets, they enjoy a warm brew. As part of their enrichment, some of the donkeys shared a bucket of warming, herbal tea.