They are synonymous to Blackpool and the whole seaside experience. The gentle clip-clop of hooves on the sandy shores, the cheerful bray of the donkeys and the careful guidance of their handlers all hold a timeless charm. For decades, children have ridden these sweet-natured animals, clutching tiny hands around the saddles, beaming with excitement. And they still do, they are a reminder of carefree days and sun filled skies.

13. This was the 1950s
Sue Copp ( of the sandcastle ) working the donkeys as a teenager / blackpool historical 1950s? | National World

14. Blackpool's Donkeys
Karen Richardson with donkeys Prince and Bruno, and her van parked outside her house on Gorton Street, Blackpool | National World

15. Blackpool's Donkeys
83 year-old Kathleen Fox from Loughborough has written a short story based on her childhood memories of holidays in Blackpool. Family photo showing Kathleen (sitting on donkey holding her baby brother Charles) with her other brother Harry and parents during a holiday | National World

16. Blackpool's Donkeys
Eternal schoolboy Jimmy Clitheroe, always a favourite with Blackpool summer show audiences, makes friends with a donkey on the sands in 1959. | National World

17. Blackpool's Donkeys
The Gazette Blackpool FC play-off flags have even reached the donkey rides on Blackpool beach. Suzanna Edge with donkeys Willow and Charlie | National World

18. Blackpool's Donkeys
Councillors set war aside to pass local laws designed to protect donkeys from cruelty on the beach - The Donkey Charter. Here's Gracie Fields taking a donkey ride in Blackpool | National World