By Ewan Davie

NEWS of Alfie the donkey’s alleged collision with a driver late last week sent shockwaves through the Five Valleys, with members of the community flocking to social media to wish him a speedy recovery.

Many were outraged at the fact that Alfie - pictured here by Heather Cook - was reported to have been hit by a car, calling for the introduction of speed cameras on Minchinhampton Common, where Alfie resides. Some also suggested that fences should be built on the sides of the road, in order to protect the animals.

Below is a collection of comments from social media from our story on Alfie’s accident.

John C commented on our website: “Action finally needs to be taken on speeding drivers on the common. Please may we have speed cameras and anyone who hits a cow or horse should be automatically charged.”

Another John posted on our Facebook page: “We need speed cameras to stop speeding on the common.”

Kim wrote: “These animals are big enough to be seen, what's the matter with people. Poor Alfie. So hope he recovers”

Gill commented on Facebook: “OMG no not Alfie, I’m furious, why can’t people pay attention and slow down it’s not rocket science!”

Margo said: “Do not go across the common where you know animals are or anywhere else for that matter if you cannot control your speed. I know accidents happen but a donkey is big enough to be seen and everyone knows the animals are out on common land.”

Shaun commented: “Sad news, I hope Alfie is alright, every time my wife and I go past him we go ‘Ahh, donkey!’ Slow down, it’s not a race track.”

Anna wrote: “Poor little donkey, so sad to hear this news, I wish people would slow down along the main roads.”

Carolyn commented on our Facebook post: “I hope poor Alfie isn't too badly hurt, poor boy.”

Victoria said: “Poor Alfie, he’s the most chilled out slowest animal on the common! Wishing him a full recovery!”

Angela posted: “What sort of speeds are people doing across the common and not paying attention to what is in front of them?”

Benji commented: “Love Alfie, hope he's ok.”

Liz said: “Oh no, poor Alfie, bless him, speedy recovery little man”

Kristine wrote: “Oh no, poor Alfie, love looking out for him. Hope he will be ok and back up there”