Pupils say hello to resort icons

Children at a Blackpool school showed their support for some of the resort’s most dedicated four-legged friends.

Waterloo Primary Academy on Waterloo Road raised £456 for the Donkey Sanctuary charity, which aims to transform the lives of donkeys and mules all over the world and ensure they live full, happy lives.

Their donation was matched by Mark Ineson of Real Donkeys, whose equine pals have been marching up and down Blackpool’s Golden Mile for 12 years.

Jenny May, Year Two leader at Waterloo Primary Academy, said: “Each year group in our school was asked to support a charity and because our children are living in Blackpool and with the Blackpool donkeys it just made sense to support the Donkey Sanctuary.

“The kids loved it and they looked into what donkeys are and researched the work they do.

“They are learning about animals on our curriculum It just sort of clicked.”

The school took part in a special fund-raising event on Monday, dressing up as donkeys and making donkey-themed keyrings in return for charity donations.

Year Two pupils were also paid a special visit by Mark and his donkey friends, who gave their thanks in the form of donkey rides around the school playground.

Jenny said: “They didn’t know that the donkeys were going to meet them at school. When they saw the donkeys their faces just lit up.

“They all got to feed the donkeys a carrot and go for a ride.

“I’d like to give a great big thank you to Real Donkeys because we couldn’t have done it without them.”

Mark Ineson, of Blackpool Real Donkeys, said: “I’m a great animal lover so when the school approached me before Christmas I didn’t have to think too hard about it.

“I’ve worked closely with donkeys on the beach for 20 years and not only that but they’ve been there for me when I’ve needed them over the years.

“It’s something that’s very close to my heart and I think, it’s a worthwhile cause.”