Support for donkey-ride owner weighing children to protect animals

John Nuttall, who operates 70 donkeys in Skegness and Cleethorpes in the family business established over 100 years ago, says he imposed the restrictions three years ago.

The recent focus follows data released in October by the NHS, that shows 20% of 10 and 11-year-olds in East Lindsey were obese.

"Most people seem to be supporting what I am doing – even those who in the past have said they don’t like seeing donkeys giving rides,” said Mr Nuttall.

However, it was not a decision he made lightly, with rides at just £4 a go to cover the rising costs of running his business since the pandemic.

Mr Nuttall explained it costs £1,000 to put a donkey on the beach and bringing in the restrictions has cost him money in lost rides.

“I’m losing money but I’m saving my donkeys,” he said, pointing out the restrictions and there to protect his animals, staff and the public.

"We run alongside strict Riding Establishment Licence guildlines, which state 8st maximum weight and age 15,” he explained.

"Our restrictions are set at weight 6st, height 1.4 metres and age 10, which is well under the guidelines and I think enough.

"The donkeys work hard and we have always put their welfare first.

"We also have to think about the safety of the children because if they are too heavy there is a danger they could slip off the saddle, injuring themselves and the donkey. We assess all riders for the donkey they wish to ride."

Children who appear to weigh more than 6st are asked to hop on scales to check, but Mr Nuttall says it is not intended to embarrass them.

"I use scales that show green for 6st and under and red over that so no-one sees the actual weight,” he said.

"It seems to work and parents generally seem to understand.”

As well as operating within Riding Establishment Licence guildlines, Mr Nuttall has five stars for animal welfare from East Lindsey District Council and North East Lincolnshire Council.

Amongst the messages of support on social media, one person commented: “Some airlines weigh their passengers when smaller aircraft are used, so that they don’t take off overloaded.

"I don’t see the issue, and well done to the owner for putting his animals welfare ahead of profit.”

Others said: “Good man cares about his donkeys.”

“Great idea. No problem with this at all. The parents need to encourage this – to teach them that the donkeys welfare is key.”