IT was goodwill to all men and donkeys in Malvern as the annual procession saw a colourful procession of fundraisers weave their way through the town singing Christmas carols and collecting donations on their way.

The annual donkey procession featured around eight donkeys and attracted young and old dressed in outfits depicting the nativity story, which were hand made by organiser retired vicar Val Needham.

It was all in aid of the Safe Haven for Donkeys in the Holy Land, an independent charity on the border of Israel and Palestine set up by a former air hostess from Britain.

The stars of the procession, which started from the Abbey Gateway and visited cafes, pubs and hotels in the town centre and ended with a nativity play, were undoubtedly the donkeys, including Stella and Alfie, belonging to owner Sheila Bell, from the Donkey Breed Society in Herefordshire.

She said: "We come to this and the procession in May from Herefordshire. It's for a good cause and we enjoy coming here."

Other donkey owners Don and Helen Russell brought along, Daisy, who is a 38-year-old donkey, her daughter Bluebell and Lily.

Mr Russell said: "We come every year. We like to support the donkeys and there is a lovely atmosphere here in Malvern at these events."

Children were also enjoying their costumes as well as the carol singing.

Mum Homera Kosar said it was great day for them.

"It gives something for the children to do," she said. "A big thanks to Val and the team for the event. It is like a family at times. The children absolutely love it."

The main aim of the day is to raise money though, with last year's event raising more than £200.

Clare Dolan who helps with the organisation said: "It's predominantly about raising money for a lovely charity. It was set up by a British Airways stewardess who actually rescued a donkey she found while on a flight to Israel and that's what she has devoted her life to.

"They go out and offer care, veterinary treatment and dentistry to donkeys at work in the markets. It's a very small charity but everything we raise goes to them.

"It's also good to bring the donkeys back to Malvern as they used to be such a big thing here."

For more information on Safe Haven for Donkeys in the Holy Land visit safehaven4donkeys.org.