Villagers eye donkey to ease burden

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More than 30 residents living on the narrow paths of Chalford, Gloucestershire, are unable to reach their properties by car.

But rather than calling for better road access, locals believe donkeys - which were used in the village until the 1950s - could offer an eco-friendly alternative for deliveries.

The idea, first suggested in a community group newsletter, has won the support of homeowners, some of whom suggest cars in the area should be banned altogether in favour of the animals.

Anna Usborne, who led the campaign, applied to the parish council for support after being quoted prices ranging from £300 to £600 to buy a donkey from her local sanctuary.

Dave Andrews, who lives on Rack Hill, said the entire village was backing the campaign to "bring back the Chalford Donkey".

Mr Andrews, a professional musician, said: "It's a brilliant idea, we are all behind the idea. Not only would it resurrect the history of our beautiful village, but it is an eco-friendly way to get our groceries up the hill.

"Some residents have resorted to ordering their shopping to be delivered from supermarkets but we don't want their vans turning up in our village. We would much rather get our stuff up with the help of a donkey.

"I think donkeys should replace all the cars in the village."

An article in this month's edition of the Chalford Community Stores newsletter, which sparked the campaign, said: "In true traditional Chalford style, we are considering making some deliveries using a donkey - yes a donkey. Imagine being woken from a deep sleep by squealing excited children as your Saturday papers and bread arrive by donkey."