A VISITOR attraction in north Durham is celebrating with some of its most popular animals as it recognises International Donkey Week.

All donkey rides will be half price at Hall Hill Farm, near Lanchester, from tomorrow (Tuesday May 7) until Tuesday May 14.

The farm attraction has looked after donkeys for over 18 years and now has seven with rides reduced to 50p during the celebrations.

Ann Darlington, tourism manager, said: “Our donkeys are a firm favourite with our visitors.

“We thought it would be nice to do something that both celebrated these animals and the pleasure they provide to many of our visitors, giving people the opportunity to get up close and personal with these fantastic four-legged creatures and learn much more about them.

“Because of their calm temperament they are an ideal mode of transport for youngsters. Donkeys are famous for giving rides on the beaches at our seaside towns, but over the years thousands of children have enjoyed a ride on a Hall Hill Farm donkey here in Lanchester.”

The Hall Hill Farm donkeys, lincluding Bob, Dusty, Remus, Robbie, Romulus, Shergar and Toby, like the other animals on the farm, can be adopted.

Adoption costs £35 per year and adopters receive photographs and information about the donkey, an adoption certificate as well as two free tickets to the farm so they can come and visit their chosen animal.

The farm is open daily from 10.30am-5pm until the autumn.