AN animal sanctuary is appealing for help to get a young bullock walking again.

Calf Sanctuary, based in Malton, took in Duke, a Hereford bullock after he was rejected by a farmer as he was a dwarf, before suffering leg injuries from a fall or attack while in a field.

Since Duke arrived at the centre in March, unable to stand, sanctuary owner Sharon Lawlor and her family have spent more than six hours a day helping him to his feet and supporting him to stand to enable him to eat and drink.

Ms Lawlor said when Duke appeared to deteriorate after arriving at the sanctuary, she sought advice from vets and farmers and, as well as massage, acupuncture and medicines.

She said she had tried a tractor and a home-made sling for support, but had concluded the centre needed £10,000 to pay for Duke's treatment and to get a digger to serve as a mobile walking aid.

Ms Lawlor, who has written an online blog about her battle to save the bullock, said: "Sadly he was destined for death by a bullet if we could not bring him home.

"Duke is making slow progress, but is now standing for longer periods on his own.

"If we can get something to support him standing it would give us more time to try and get him walking.

"Despite his problems, Duke is affectionate, loving and gentle, and quickly became inseparable best friends with Kevin the lamb."

To donate, visit gofundme.com/ojraac or for details, visit calfsanctuary.com