Annual Totton Donkey Derby raises thousands for Eling Sea Scouts and 5th Testwood Scouts
ORGANISERS of the annual Totton and Eling donkey derby, which raises funds for local Scouts, have been “blown away” by the community’s response.
Thousands turned out to support the event, which is in its 27th year and took place at Eling recreation ground on Saturday.
The biggest event to date, it was jointly organised by Eling Sea Scouts and 5th Testwood Scouts, and raised £14,000 for the groups.
As well as races, there were stalls, food, and family activities including archery, inflatables and a climbing wall.
Lead volunteer at 5th Testwood Scouts, Steven Osborn, told the A&T: “I’m blown away, we had so many people come out from all ages to enjoy the day, try some new activities and be part of the fun. We’ve had so much positive feedback and through visiting, it’s heartening to know our community has supported two local Scout groups trying to bring skills for life to our young people.
“I’m indebted to all the volunteers who made the day possible from both groups, running activities such as the climbing, archery and tomahawks, playing the games and stalls around the site for our Scouts, leading the donkey rides and lining the races up at the start and setting up and packing down around it. A special shout out to Sarah and Craig Challis, two of our volunteer cub leaders who lead on the organisation of all this and have the imagination and drive to bring this to life.”
He added: “Thanks to all the visitors, we look to have raised around £14,000 for both groups. This whole event has been so special and shown the fun of Scouts to everyone – we’ve even had a few people asking about volunteering their time to help us, which we need more than funds at this point.”