Regional heats in Britain’s Best Beach Donkey competition were held at Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, and a local team owned by Hayley Parker took top spot. Donkey welfare officer Shelagh Steel said she was delighted with the health and condition of the winning animals.

Ms Parker’s success is also spreading as there are plans to bring donkeys to Lowestoft beach in Suffolk next year.

Ms Steel said Hayley Parker had done particularly well because she had little idea about donkey welfare when she started out in the business but her team is now one of the best.

“The awards are based on the donkeys’ welfare. They must be in good health; strong with good conformation, have gentle placid natures and, above all, be happy in their work.

“Their condition and suitability of their tack is an equally important factor.”

The annual best beach donkey competition, established by the Sanctuary in 2003, aims to recognise high standards of animal welfare practice by selecting the best donkeys and their owners at regional and national levels.

The national finals will be held later this year.

Source: Courtesy BBC