Resort donkeys 'best attraction'

The donkeys have been owned by four generations of the same family

Weston-super-Mare's beach donkeys have been voted the nation's favourite seaside attraction.

The donkey attraction, which has been owned by the resort's Mager family for more than 100 years, came top in the national Coast Awards.

Kevin Mager, who now runs the business, said it was nice to win the award on behalf of Weston.

Joint runners-up in the competition were the Newlyn Art Gallery in Cornwall and Southwold Pier in Suffolk.

Four generations of the Mager family still work on the sea-front business with the donkeys.

"My family go back to 1886 working down here on the beach so it was nice to win something and win it for Weston as well," said Mr Mager.

"It is a long time to be involved in something and to be so involved with tourism in Weston-super-Mare."

Ron Mager, 83, the senior member of the family, has held a licence for donkey rides on the beach since the 1940s and continues to work on the sands.

The Coast Awards annual competition recognises coastal businesses across England and gives awards in various categories.

These include Best British Beach, Best All Round Seaside Destination, Best Shoreline B&B, Best Seaside Landmark Building and Best Coastal Pub or Restaurant.