A custom-made compact ISEKI tractor is helping to keep 230 donkeys comfortable and fed at a brilliant sanctuary in Devon.
For over 50 years, the Donkey Sanctuary organisation has worked to transform the lives of donkeys across the world and in a tranquil corner of the Jurassic Coast near Sidmouth there is a sanctuary that hundreds (230 to be precise) of rescued donkeys call home.
Caring for the donkeys is the absolute priority and Farm Supervisor Jamie Down explained how a reliable tractor is essential to the cause.
“Our old tractor we had was due for replacement so we went looking for one which would meet our specification, and that is when we came across ISEKI,” she said. “Most of the tractors on the market were too tall to fit into our shelters, but when we contacted ISEKI, they kindly made us some custom-made rims to lower the height of the vehicle. This allowed it to fit into the sheds – and supply the donkeys with their beds and feeding straw, which is an essential job at the sanctuary.”
The tractor Jamie selected was the ISEKI TG6687 with a Stage V 67hp engine. Compact in size with all the accessories and options of the higher specification agricultural tractors, the TG can also be used in farming for easy access to cowsheds, or donkey shelters in this case, and also farms where space is limited. The technology allows for easy operation and less fatigue on the driver.
With a superior lift capacity of up to 1,600kg, the ISEKI TG6687 allows you to run all your implements without the need to increase the size or horsepower of your tractor.
Furthermore, the HST model gives you the benefit of cruise control, which is perfect for a variety of turf maintenance implements where accuracy is required. The PS model has an F12/R12 Power Shuttle transmission.
“We’ve been really pleased with this tractor for a number of reasons,” said Jamie. “It came with an automatic pick-up hitch instead of a clevis hitch which suited our requirements. It also has a Grammer seat which meets the current health and safety standards and is a lot more comfortable. The shuttle also makes it really easy to change direction in tight spaces.
“The dealer support was also superb; the communication was great and they went out of their way for us.
“Overall, this ISEKI tractor has been a great investment for us.”