THE Friends of Sandford School (FOSS) Parent Teacher Association organised again its fun, family fundraising event, a Donkey Derby.

It was not held last year but this year the weather held off and the event went ahead at Sandford School on Saturday, September 20.

It was a delight to see the donkeys munching on hay on arrival at the school field and it was not long before donkey rides were available at a small cost for the children.

Then it was down to the more serious side of Donkey Racing, with betting on six races with six runners in each race.

Children volunteered as the jockeys and they all enjoyed taking part.

Race one was The Dairy Dash sponsored by Crediton Dairy, the following race, Run it’s the Vet sponsored by Jonathan Wood Veterinary Surgeon, No Brainer Meatbox sponsored by Cox Butchers of Crediton, Conibeare Chase sponsored by Conibears National Cladding and Roofing Distribution, Ashgrove sponsored by Ashgrove Kitchens and Golden Wheatsheaf Derby sponsored by NFU Mutual.

Donkey sponsors included CMC Makers, Friends of Sandford School, The Lamb Inn, Pool Spa Services Ltd, Arque Construction Ltd and Adams Home Hardware.

There was also a barbecue, refreshments, a cake stall, small bar and bets could be placed on who would win at a Tote.

There were some great names chosen for the donkeys including Shrek, Rocket, Skippy, Wonky, Creedy, Honkey, Burrito, Pickle, Crazy Horse, Eeyore, Apple, Her-Haw, Bubbles, Hop Along, Dynamo, Plum, Ebony, Nester, Jango, Maud, Guss and Doodle!

Thanks went to everyone that supported the event by providing sponsorship.

Funds were raised for the school Friends group.

FOSS brings together mums, dads, carers, teachers, aunts, uncles, grandparents and other members of the local community who support Sandford School.

It is a member of the National Confederation of Parent Teacher Associations.