Wirral News Letters – May 26

May 26 2010 Birkenhead News

Call this beach entertainment?

I WRITE to agree with the opinion of Ellen Goldman (Letters, May 12) regarding the reintroduction of donkey rides at New Brighton.

I am equally appalled at the prospect of these animals being abused, yes abused, for the amusement of arrogant humans.

I thought we had passed this form of animal exploitation but it seems some want to return to the days of animal suffering as a “quaint” part of beach entertainment.

Saying perhaps that it ensures the lives of the donkeys is no excuse any more than bear-baiting ensured there were plenty of bears kept living.

KEN CLARK

Via e-mail

Good luck

AS a woman who worked with the donkeys at New Brighton in the 1960s and 70s, I am totally opposed to Ellen Goldman’s comments.

I have visited their place of abode and saw very well fed and happy donkeys.

I have worked and looked after horses and donkeys abroad and have come across dreadful cruelty so I know what I’m talking about.

Good luck to Mrs Thompson and thank you for bringing happiness to old and young alike.

ANNIE

Wallasey

Welfare first

I REFER to the letter “Appalled”, written by Ellen Goldman.

I take it you are a strict vegan and do not use cosmetics or medicines, as all will have been tested on animals at some point.

No-one who does any sort of work with animals is doing so to get rich but because they enjoy the company and working relationship that you can build with such intelligent creatures.

A few donkeys that work maybe six hours a day, two or three days a week for five months of the year would hardly be earning their owners a fortune.

What makes you so sure that the environment for beach donkeys is uncomfortable, unfamiliar (donkeys are, after all desert creatures) and potentially threatening?

I worked for many years for Jack Clarke, the famous “Donkey Man” of New Brighton, whose care of his animals was better than that enjoyed by many children nowadays.

He managed to feed and clothe his family but he certainly wasn’t in it for the money, and the welfare of his donkeys always came first.

EILEEN WALDIE

Greasby

Praise for police

MY house was burgled. I disturbed the burglars and called the police.

The police response was immediate and they were able to apprehend the culprits. What I think of them, the damage caused and the lack of respect for other people’s property would not be allowed in print.

However, the professional way the police took control of the situation should be commended.

Two officers returned to my address to complete statements and a scene of crimes officer called later that day.

That the culprits are to be taken to court shows there is a police force we can rely on and trust. My only regret is the sentence, if any, will not reflect the distress and upset caused or the excellent efforts of the police.

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED

Lost and found

TRAVELLING to Liverpool by train, I somehow forgot to pick up my umbrella.

It was only when we arrived in Liverpool I realised it was missing. On the off chance that it might have been handed in I later enquired at the ticket office and was delighted to be handed it.

It wasn't my best day, because later in the evening I discovered my glasses were missing! When I rang the restaurant where we had our lunch they had retrieved them from a chair. I consider myself very lucky – must have had two very senior moments.

J.M.F

West Kirby