Campaigners in bid to ban beach donkey rides at popular seaside destination
CAMPAIGNERS are trying to ban popular beach donkey rides.
A petition brands the seaside tradition “outdated and cruel” and wants it to end after 138 years.
The rides even feature on postcards and souvenirs sold in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.
But Becca Hullah, who started the petition on the change.org website, said: “I am deeply distressed by the continued use of donkeys for beach rides.
“There are plenty more exciting attractions to visit in Weston-super-Mare that do not compromise animal welfare.”
The petition, launched a week ago, is nearing its target of 500 signatures which would then see it sent to the local council and the Government.
Beach donkey operator Richard Warburton, 51, said: “If we were talking about a donkey in a foreign country working in the mines, I would agree.
“But this is Weston- super-Mare.
“We have 20 working donkeys and we change them every day.
“Donkey rides are only for children under 14 and you have to be under eight stone to ride on one.
“There is no heavy weight put on them.”
The council said: “The donkey operators are fully licensed under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
“There is a yearly inspection by an animal welfare officer accompanied by a vet.
“Unannounced inspections are also carried out.”