Dudley the Donkey

Dudley the Donkey

The sculpture of Dudley the Donkey resides in Pier Gardens and was created to honour one of Cleethorpes most famous women. Gladys Nuttall, along with her husband Buster, first brought donkey rides to Cleethorpes beach in the 1940s starting with four pitches along the seafront. The traditional seaside attraction has brought pleasure to many holidaymakers over the years.

Donkeys were traditionally used for carrying heavy loads of coal throughout the UK. The earliest record of donkeys working on beaches dates back to1780. They were used because of their gentle nature, quiet disposition and were often ridden side saddle.

Created by local artist Donnas Peterson it was to be surprise for Gladys but she sadly died before it was finished.

Young children can still enjoy a donkey ride on the beach at Cleethorpes and you can get a selfie with Dudley when you have a wander in Pier Gardens.