YOUNGSTERS visiting Colchester's Castle Park this summer are in for a treat.

For alongside the acres of open space and play equipment, there will be donkey rides to enjoy for the first time in decades.

Sue Field, who runs Leavenheath-based Rainbow Donkeys, has been testing customer demand this week.

She has taken two of her furry charges, Aaron and Benji, along to Hollytrees Meadow, to meet their young fans.

She said: “Hopefully, it is going to prove very popular, from the feedback I have had so far.

“I have had people asking our hours and when when we are coming back.”

Mrs Field’s team will be giving rides, costing £2.50 each, at the park on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11am to 4pm, during the Easter, half-term and summer breaks.

She added: “I think a lot of parents love to see the traditional things back.

“For many of them, their first memory is sitting on a donkey at the seaside.

“It is also an ideal opportunity to introduce their children to some kind of equine, and donkeys are usually much quieter than ponies.

“It is a chance for kids to sit on a donkey and get a feel for it.”

In 2009, donkeys returned to Clacton beach for the first time in 20 years, courtesy of Jayne Johns.

She decided to restore the tradition after being given a donkey for her 40th birthday.

Visit www.rainbowdonkeys.co.uk