WESTBURY Lions’ Donkey Derby was another smash hit at the weekend, with crowds turning out in their hundreds for the annual fun day at the White Horse Country Park.
The quirky fundraiser again pulled in over £4,000 to donate to local causes, as crowds cheered on the young jockeys, played fairground games, painted their faces and hopped in sack races.
Lions president Jarvis MacDonald said, “The derby was a big success! Despite the threat of rain we had a great turnout similar to last year’s and raised over £4,000, which we’re delighted with.
“It was a super day and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. The donkey derby is one our major fundraisers each year and raises a lot of money for us to help local people with.
“I think people enjoy the derby because it’s something a bit different and everyone can look forward to it. It’s a fun family day out with lots to do and we try to keep the costs down.
“Thanks to the Westbury public for coming out and showing such great support again.”
The Lions also held a special event before the derby for Westbury Parent Carers Group, a local group of parents of children with learning difficulties.
Jarvis continued, “We invited the parent group early for the first time this year and I think it was a big success.
“Many of the families in the group are not able to come along to the big public event because of their children’s needs. They came along in the morning to have a ride on the donkeys, visit the petting zoo and enjoy an ice cream.
“I think the arrangement went very well and we’d like to make it an annual event.”
The money raised from the Donkey Derby will go to the Lions’ own charitable trust, which goes towards helping local people in need.
Find out more about the club at www.westburylions.org.uk
