A tradition spanning more than a century on a much-loved Welsh beach has been brought to an abrupt halt following a ban imposed by local authorities.
Donkey rides on Coney Beach in Porthcawl, Bridgend county in Wales, have delighted visitors for well over 100 years, though the practice has attracted criticism from animal rights campaigners throughout the years. The cherished tradition is now finished after the local council extended an existing ban on dogs to cover all animals on the beach, meaning donkeys can no longer roam the stretch of sand.
Bridgend Council acknowledged the significance of seaside attractions such as this, while maintaining its focus on regeneration plans for the surrounding area. The rule that previously applied solely to dogs between May 1 and September 30 will now encompass all animals, resulting in no donkeys being permitted on the beach throughout the peak tourist season.
Jay Bateman, whose family has operated the donkey-riding business for over 100 years, described himself as "heartbroken" upon learning the news. Speaking to the BBC, he said: "It's been in our family since 1918. We've maintained the beach [and] done the bins on the beach." He revealed that caring for the donkeys is a year-round job. He explained that looking after the donkeys is a commitment that demands attention throughout the entire year, adding: "We have to keep the donkeys because they're our lives. We can't get rid of them."
He also warned the decision would deliver another setback to tourism in the area, after the closure of Coney Beach Amusement Park last year. Another local voiced his disappointment to the BBC, cautioning that the decision threatened "ripping the heart" out of the community. "We want to be a seaside town, so we need to attract tourists," he said. "Porthcawl is famous for seaside facilities and yet the council seem to be determined to ruin it."
Meanwhile, Jacqui Howe, founder of Springwood Sanctuary in Carmarthen, said that watching donkeys labouring throughout the day can be discouraging for visitors. She added: "Circuses have been outlawed, and greyhound racing is going to be banned. People are becoming more aware that animals should be able to have a free life." She maintains the ban should apply to all beaches, as such environments, especially when crowded with holidaymakers, can be "a lot" for the animals to manage.
The council confirmed it is presently "reviewing the expressions of interest that we have received for providing all-new seasonal activities at Coney Beach". It also noted "residents and visitors should look out for some exciting announcements about a wide range of new activities and stalls in the near future."
Animal welfare advocates have consistently voiced opposition to donkey rides at popular seaside resorts. Animal rights organisation PETA recently posted on X to contend that donkeys and mules are regularly compelled to "carry the weight - often in the heat, often without rest, and often when they're already injured or exhausted". It continued: "They don't choose this. They endure it. Leave them out of your holiday plans. Don't ride them."
That said, certain visitors seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience. One TripAdvisor review states: "Amazing donkey rides with lovely staff and very well looked after donkeys. My granddaughter loves this activity and everyone is so kind."
