Cromer donkeys set to return next year

There are high hopes that donkey rides on the beach in Cromer could return again next year.

In May this year it was reported how North Norfolk District Council had refused an application to allow two donkeys, Barry and Ivan, to run rides along the beach.

But the decision was reversed after overwhelming public reaction in favour of the rides, as long as certain conditions about safety and location were agreed.

Now, the owners of the donkeys, mum-of-three, Amanda Cook, who also runs a horse and cart taxi through the town centre, and her husband Joe, say they are hopeful the donkeys will be back again next year, after proving a success during the summer.

Mr Cook said in a meeting with Karl Read, North Norfolk District Council's leisure and cultural services manager, his wife had been told that they would be happy for the donkeys to return.

He said: 'They said they found it a positive thing to bring to Cromer in the end, so it is thumbs up for another year.'

Speaking about the summer season, he added: 'It has not been the best weather, but we did get people come from all over the country to see the donkeys, they would say to us, 'so these are the famous Cromer donkeys'.'

The couple are now looking to possibly have a special Christmas horse and carraige ride, with Father Christmas at the reigns, and they are also looking into plans for them to use the horse and carriage for special events at Blicking Hall.

Mr Read said; 'We are really pleased with how it has gone having the donkeys on the beach, we think they have been a really positive addition. We are looking to continue that next year.'