Children who are overweight are to be banned from seaside donkey
rides. Nationwide rules which come into force today set a limit of 8
stone. They reflect concern that a new generation of obese youngsters could make the animals' lives a misery.
It means an end to the classic saucy postcard image of a fat lady
clinging to a struggling donkey's back.
Under the new national code, which will be used by local authorities
to license rides, donkeys must have at least one full day of rest a
week. They are also entitled to an hour's lunch break every day.
Blackpool, which boasts the highest number of donkeys with 200, last
night welcomed the move. The town launched its own welfare charter in
1942, including vet checks for their animals every spring.
But the reaction from day-trippers on the windswept promenade was
mixed. Pensioner Frank Abbott, 77, of Liverpool, said the donkeys
needed as much protection as possible.
"It is a tough enough job as it is without some grossly overweight
child on their backs. It really should be just for toddlers."
But mother of two Angela Jones, 42, of Manchester, said fat children
could feel humiliated if they were turned away. "The donkeys are hardy creatures. Surely the odd heavy child won't harm them."
(Sunday Express)
07/04/08 @ 10:31