Donkey-ride owners 'exceed standards', says council

Donkey-ride owners in Lincolnshire "consistently exceed the expected standards" of licensing rules, according to a local authority.

The vote of confidence by East Lindsey District Council follows research that found donkeys retired or taken in by The Donkey Sanctuary charity from licensed operators had "health and welfare issues".

The council said it was "always mindful" that the welfare of the animals was "of the upmost importance".

John Nuttall, who operates donkey rides in Skegness, said he had reduced the required weight and age limit to ride his donkeys to ensure they are "comfortable and not overworked".

The Donkey Sanctuary research covered animals working for licensed operators in the UK that had gone into its care between 2015 and 2023.

Hoof, weight and dental issues were the highest contributing factors to poor welfare.

The research stated: "Donkeys are engaged in a diverse range of licensed activities throughout Great Britain and are frequently one of the main draws of some commercial businesses.

"Most donkeys relinquished or removed from licensed premises were found to have health and welfare issues."

It comes just weeks after a council in Wales confirmed donkey rides would no longer run on a beach where they have been a tradition for more than a century.

John Nuttall's family has operated donkey rides in Skegness and Cleethorpes for more than 100 years.

Speaking on BBC Radio Lincolnshire, Nuttall said the licensing age limit for children on donkey rides was 14 but he had reduced it to 10, as well as bringing down the weight limit from eight stone (50kg) to six (38kg).

"We've come down a lot in age and weight just to make sure the donkeys are comfortable and not overworked," he said.

"I do a bit more than what the licensing [authority] expects you to."

Despite the recent hot weather, Nuttall said that on the coast there had been a sea breeze.

"There are days [when] if it is extreme I won't operate," he added.

A district council spokesperson said: "Donkey riding is a longstanding seaside tradition and is supported by many of our local residents and visitors.

"However, we are also always mindful that the welfare of the animals involved and correct practice of the businesses providing the service is of the upmost importance."

The spokesperson added that donkey-ride operators underwent "additional annual veterinary inspections" with any recommendations "followed up promptly".

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