SOME mustered a gallop, many just plodded, and others stopped to eat the grass.

But the 3,500 people who came to Eling Recreation Ground in Totton for a day at the races were kept thoroughly entertained by the town’s 17th annual donkey derby.

The event was organised by the 4th New Forest North (Eling) Sea Scouts who are raising funds to finish their new Aquativity Centre at Testwood Lakes.

The derby was opened by former Sea Scout David Sisi, a Totton lad who is a member of London Irish Rugby Club and has just been selected for the U20 England World Cup squad.

Organisers said around £7,000 was raised.