Brian Hayhurst on when donkey rides go beyond holiday fun and lead to fears over animal welfare

Huddersfield ex-pat BRIAN HAYHURST reports from his home near Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol

The recent protest in our nearby Mijas village about cruelty towards donkeys appears to have made some impact upon the local authorities here with a statement in their weekly Seminar.

A Mijas Town Hall councillor, Marco Cortes, has been designated to looking after the welfare of these animals used as a tourist taxi service.

They have agreed instantly to awnings over the donkeys for necessary shade, an increase in the number of drinking troughs, a much-needed lengthening of the tie ropes for all of the donkeys and new stalls for resting.

Also, with the opportunity for all to see on-line, the regular vet check-ups, and a request for all owners to keep a record of the activity and the animal’s working conditions, is definitely a move in the right direction to ensuring these gentle hardworking donkeys are kept well.

 

We shall see if these measures will in fact give satisfaction to the growing numbers who have been appalled at the way they have been treated.

A recent council meeting discussed weight restrictions, run free time and cameras – but no action taken. Animal rights group PETA is urging the mayor to ban the donkey taxis and replace them with electric tuk-tuks.

There have been numerous demonstrations about the treatment of donkeys over the years, and a much respected sanctuary for dozens of donkeys – Donkey Dreamland – says it would happily take some in to allow them to “retire peacefully roaming freely in local pastures.”

 

There are hundreds of religious-based festivals throughout the country, most have a huge local following, some going back centuries, and are enjoyed as they follow processions in costumes, usually with bands.

One such annual event this week was celebrated by thousands in and around Mijas Pueblo was Vergen de la Pena.

An effigy of Virgin Mary was carried in procession from the ancient church, excavated out of rock there. According to the legend she was discovered in 1586 by two child shepherds who were guided to the place by a dove.

These festivities were carried forward also down to La Cala where live music was offered for the gathering crowds daily with bars, food and cultural, fun activities going on until tomorrow (Sunday) when the procession will return the effigy back to her sanctuary.

 

A couple of years ago a colleague – avid charity supporter Alan Boardman – and I went to interview a tireless provider for homeless and vulnerable people in Fuengirola, Joyce Gyimah.

She is founder and CEO of a company called ‘The Adintre Foundation,’ on the fringe of the Fuengirola fairground.

With 20 years of incredible work with desperately less fortunate people Joyce has been awarded a top British honour this week – an honorary BEM (British Empire Medal).

Large numbers of homeless people turn up every week at the centre to enjoy a hot meal and have chance of a shower. They are also given replacement clothing if needed.

Alan has contributed regular sums towards her work with adults and young people, for her dedication in transforming countless lives with physical and emotional support during difficult times. A wonderful lady, given a most appropriate reward.

Finally, Benalmadena’s once buzzing entertainment park – Tivoli – is a step closer to reopening with the Town Council considering developing a shopping zone in the park to help make it financially viable. Locals have delivered food and material to ex-workers who have freely kept the park safe and clean.

READ MORE: Catch up on Brian’s previous blogs HERE