A special prize giving ceremony is being held today at 12.30 pm on the beach (Foreshore area) for Scarborough's award winning beach donkeys.

The donkeys, owned by Amanda Pickles will receive a trophy and rosette for winning the regional title of Best Group of Beach Donkeys in the Scarborough and North Yorkshire Coast, whilst Melanie Fisher's donkey, Freddie, will be awarded with the regional title for Best Individual Beach Donkey.

The awards are part of a national competition organised by The Donkey Sanctuary, a charity based near Sidmouth in Devon, which aims to recognise high standards of animal welfare practice.

The prize will be presented by the Mayor and Consort of the Borough of Scarborough and representatives from The Donkey Sanctuary, including regional welfare officer Molly Lloyd, will also attend.

The winners were announced on Monday 1st September.

Molly Lloyd explains how the awards are based on the donkeys' welfare: "The donkeys must be in good health; have gentle and placid natures and, above all, be happy in their work. The condition and suitability of their tack is an equally important factor."