Wooden Donkey Club

At least a decade ago I used to have stacks of visitors from all over the World stay at Chateau Coombes. One of the crews that came through a few times were The Wooden Donkey Club, from Ireland. Their president was a fun dude called Jay Doherty, a.k.a the Jay-bone, a.k.a The Swan. He'd come over on sleazy jet with Bruce the Ox and Rich Gilly Gilligan. They were usually armed with nothing more than skateboards, a huge bundle of energy and enthusiasm to skate anywhere or anything. They were always kind enough to bring gifts like fanzines or videos for me but on their first trip over Jay brought this Wooden Donkey. Apparently he sat it next to him on the plane. I've treasured it in my garden ever since as a memento of his fun spirit. I've had to paint it a few times to try and protect it from the elements. This year the Wooden Donkey is sporting a bright aqua colour.

Thanks The Swan for the smiles and the inspiration.