Thousands turn out for Donkey Derby at the Memorial Park

[dutchman]

The sun was shining and hundreds of kids were enjoying donkey trips, ice cream and funfair rides.



Not Blackpool beach, but Coventry’s War Memorial Park on a glorious Saturday afternoon for the city’s Donkey Derby.

Thousands of people took advantage of the summer sun to support the 43rd animal-themed extravaganza which raises thousands for charity.

Among the throng of visitors was Valerie Jones, of Mount Nod, Coventry, with her daughter and three of her four grandchildren, Stevie, five, Michael, three, and Scarlett, three months.

Valerie, a retired playgroup worker, said: “I saw it advertised in the Telegraph and thought it looked like a really good family fun day out.

“We thought it might rain but it’s a beautiful day.

“I last came about 20 years ago when my daughter was small.”

Also enjoying the donkey rides was Harry Regan, two, from Earlsdon.

His mum, 26-year-old lettings manager Suzanne McGaffney said: “He loves animals – and he’s seen Peppa Pig – so he’s really happy!

“It’s great to come up, it’s right to support local events like this.

“It’s just a lovely day out.”

As well as leisurely donkey rides for the little ones, there were exciting donkey races, with older riders battling to stay on the lumbering beasts.

All the riders came from Moor Farm Stables, in Corley, near Coventry, which received a £500 cheque on the day to further its support of the Riding For The Disabled charity.

The event was organised by the Coventry Leofric Lions which will divide the money raised between the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, Zoe’s Place children’s hospice, in Ash Green, and other charities.

Leofric Lions spokesman Ken Brown said: “It would be disappointing if we raised less than £5,000.

“It’s been the best day for at least the last 10 years in terms of the turnout and weather.

“It’s rained for the past three years which made us very depressed!”

[PoundShopPeter]

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150242934732023

( if it works ) should be able to view a little selection of photos & video clips.

[dutchman]

Cheers Peter