Jasmine the rescued rabbit from Colchester has become Britain's most expensive bunny after her devoted owner spent more than £2,500 on medical bills to save her.

College administrator Jane Sweeting took in Jasmine after she was found locked in a garage covered in oil and starving.

Jasmine has been living with college administrator Jane and her husband and their four other pet rabbits happily until she developed trouble with her sight.

"We noticed a problem with one of her eyes and the vet warned us that it was probably pasturella and that she would probably have to be put down," explained 30-year-old Jane at her St John's home.

"The disease is found in nearly all rabbits but only comes out in some it can also be fatal."

"Putting her to sleep simply wasn't an option so we paid for Jasmine to have two operations on her eyes they were long complicated medical procedures lasting several hours.

"I know people say that £2,500 is a lot to spend but I always answer that it is no more than a dedicated dog or cat lover would spend on their pet."

Published Tuesday, May 20, 2003

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