Couple donate engagement ring funds to Brooke

Forget diamonds – for one animal lover, donkeys are a girl’s best friend

Ring the changes

Ross Pinkerton (53) from Manchester knew the way to his girlfriend’s heart wasn’t with flash jewellery. So when he proposed during their holiday in Vietman, instead of whipping out a ring, he suggested they give the money to the Brooke.

Celeste Hill (46) from Monmouth, South Wales said ‘yes!’ and even agreed to match the amount Ross had originally planned to spend on a diamond ring.

All the money is now going to the charity, which helps improve the lives of working horses and donkeys in some of the world’s poorest communities.

Amazing plan

“If I ever had any doubts about being with Ross for the rest of my life, they disappeared when he came up with his amazing plan of helping working donkeys and horses rather than giving me something shiny to put on my finger,” said Celeste.

“He really has an understanding of what is important to me and I know that this cause is so important to him now as well.”

Helped and healed

With a passion for travel, Celeste has seen for herself the hardship faced by many working equids.

“I’ve seen some awful things involving donkeys and horses during my travels,” said Celeste. “The poor animals often have to carry unbearable loads, lack food, water, veterinary treatment and shelter from the scorching sun.

“I’m so pleased that working horses and donkeys will be helped and healed because of our engagement.”

Celeste and Ross plan to get married in early 2016.