Hundreds of people flocked to the annual ling Donkey Derby.

They converged yesterday on Eling Recreation Ground in Totton to watch junior jockeys battle it out on their not-so-trusty steeds.

The event, the 22nd of its type, is always guaranteed to provide plenty of thrills and spills.

Several riders and donkeys have already come to grief but most of the children were none the worse after landing on the soft turf.

DO YOU REMEMBER THE DONKEY DERBY OF 1999? SEE ALL OUR PICTURES

However, one rider was helped to his feet by first aides after a third except pile-up involving three or four donkeys.

The start of the donkey Derby was hit by torrential rain and is running slightly behind schedule.

Last year's event was also marred by a downpour but still raised £6,000 for Eling Sea scouts.

For full picture coverage of the event see tomorrow's Daily Echo.