Review of the 2007 Donkey Derby
The going was Soft but it wasn't Hard to have a Good time!

 The 2007 Donkey Derby was planned for Sunday 24th June and there was little that was going to stop it going ahead. The torrents of rain on the Saturday came close as we wondered whether the field would be able to stand up to the hooves and shoes on the following day.

Sunday morning began early with the race course being mapped out ready for the impending donkeys and riders. By 10am the field was buzzing and squelching with our keen volunteers who had come to help set up our many stalls. Many armed with their trusty gazebos for protection.
 

 



 

Despite the rain clouds and drizzle the band were ready to play and the BBQ was lit and ready to go by 12.30. The crowds began to arrive ready for an afternoon of fun. The eagerly awaited Donkeys arrived and the races began shortly after. Having straightened our race track this year, our riders found it easier to remain on their steeds with many reaching the finish line. Rosettes and certificates were presented to our winners.

     

The afternoon continued with various cloud bursts not dampening the enthusiasm of most people. In fact it gave most the good excuse to find our refreshments stall inside busily serving hot drinks, cake, scones and strawberries. For those requiring something more substantial our BBQ chefs offered delicious BBQ food with a quick sing-a-long to the band included in the price.

'Thirsty Work' continued to play throughout the afternoon, the stalls offered a wide selection of games and activities to play including our infamous maggot racing, fling-a-cake, egg-a-pult, rodeo bull and crockery for the more active together with the more traditional tombola, hook a duck, pony rides and face painting.
 

 

The afternoon was heralded a great success by all those attending and involved. At present £6,000 has been raised which will be split between the six benefiting charities.

Thanks go to all those who contributed during the afternoon and in the preparation of the event.

We hope that everyone who attended had a great fun family afternoon.

The Doddinghurst Donkey Derby Committee

 

  

 


Doddinghurst Donkey Derby

6th July 2008

Site Owned by Doddinghurst Donkey Derby Committee
Photographs by Bill Parkinson

© Doddinghurst Donkey Derby 2007