Published: August 7, 2009
Donkies and pigs go under starter's orders at Brean Leisure Park!

Trotters and hooves were pounding around Brean Leisure Park this week as the first of this summer's pig and donkey races got underway.

The annual tradition has been held at the park for several years and helped to raise many thousands of pounds for local charities.

"Pig racing is hilarious fun for everyone, but the ones who enjoy it most are our pigs!," said Brean Leisure Park's Mike Barsby.

"They thrive on human contact and get very excited by the crowd, so come along on a Tuesday evening have a flutter and cheer on your chosen pig. The louder you cheer, the faster they run!"

Children are invited to don riding hats and ride donkeys during the race evenings. "Donkeys only do what they want to do, so we've seen them run, or even walk, to within a yard or two of the finishing line and then turn round and start going back! All the coaxing in the world won’t persuade them otherwise. And that’s what makes it all such good fun and a laugh – especially if you’ve placed a bet on the winning donkey!"

Pig and donkey racing takes place at Brean Leisure park every Tuesday at 7pm until 1st September. Profits are shared between local charities and entry is only £2.

Pictured above are two lucky winners, Rosie and Helen Barsby, who won several pounds after placing a bet on the winning donkies of race six named 'Not tonight Josephine'