THE sight of donkeys racing across Simmons Park with child jockeys will provide a thrill this summer as Okehampton Lions host a donkey derby. The event is on Sunday, July 1, seven days before the park hosts a big celebration to mark 100 years since it was first given to the town by benefactor Sydney Simmons. Lions Club member Peter Roberts, who is organising the event, says if it proves a success the donkey derby could become an annual event. He said there would be six heats and a final during the day with seven donkeys per race. He said: 'It is going to be a really nice family fun day. It is a laugh. It is an afternoon where you can come along, have a little bet and a drink, if you want, and forget all your problems while you're watching the races.' The young jockeys will come from local pony clubs, such as Mid Devon, Eggesford and Lamerton, to which the Lions have written, asking them to put forward suitable youngsters. As in horse racing, the jockeys sport colourful costumes which help add to the spectacle. They also wear crash helmets to ensure their safety. Mr Roberts said as well as the donkey derby, there would also be three sulkey races — races where a donkey pulls a lightweight, two-wheeled, single-seater cart. Donkey rides for young children will also be available between races. Face-painting and other fun activities for young people will be on offer. Entrance to the park will be free, so the Lions are seeking sponsorship to help raise funds for the local charities it supports. The Lions are looking for local businesses to help by taking out advertisements in the programme or sponsoring a race or a donkey. Mr Roberts said Mole Avon and Okehampton Glass had generously agreed to sponsor races. There will also be a £100 cash prize draw run through the programme, which is likely to go on sale in early June. BBC Radio Devon DJ Ian Brass has agreed to compere the day. St John Ambulance will provide first aid cover and have agreed to give a display during the day. Organisers say they have between 30 and 40 side stalls already interested in booking, although there is room for many more. Lions Club members will be manning their food van, serving up burgers and sausage and bacon baps to hungry spectators. Mr Roberts' family have been involved in donkey derbies in Britain for more than 40 years. His father, Jim, purchased his first donkey and took it racing at Wivelsfield in 1960. The following year, he bought more animals and established the Witley Donkey Racing teams which travelled all over the country, staging derbies at holiday camps and corporate events. His sister now runs the business. The team of around 14 to 16 specially-trained donkeys will be coming from Guildford in Surrey. A local farmer has agreed to find space to put them up overnight the night before. Any group or organisation who would like to book a stall or a business or anyone who would like to sponsor a donkey or a race, contact Mr Roberts for more information on 01837 55239 or peter.jobeze@bt. internet.com