A PAIR of donkeys were the centre of attention in Thornbury over the Easter period as they helped to celebrate the religious festival.

Bella and Cinderella from Shepperdine Riding School led children on Palm Sunday for a traditional procession from St Mary's Church Hall to St Mary's Church in Thornbury.

Reverend Jan van der Lely from St Mary’s Church said: “The children loved stroking the donkeys and feeding them carrots, as we held our palm crosses and thought about Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem.”

On Easter Monday, the pair took the lead again, this time for a four-mile charity walk from Shepperdine to Oldbury.

The aim of the day was to raise money for charity “The Brooke”, which aims to improve the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules in some of the world's poorest communities.

A group of 25 children, adults, and dogs-on-leads took part and at the half-way point enjoyed refreshments generously laid on by Oldbury Community Shop before turning for home.

Meanwhile Bella and Cinderella enjoyed a good graze in a nearby paddock.

The donkeys’ owner Jean Ward said: “It was a marvellous morning, very well supported, and we were pleased to raise £63 for The Brooke.

“The donkeys loved getting out and about and behaved very well even though they are still young.”