MORE than 400 people came to watch Malvern's May Day charity procession through the town as rescue donkeys were again the stars of the show.

The fundraising event was begun by Rev Val Needham to raise money for the Safe Haven for Donkeys, in the Holy Land, as well as the Malvern Spa Association.

The service takes in the blessing of the natural spring spas in the town at Malvhina Belle Vue Island, The Courtyard, Happy Valley Spout, Donkey Spout and St Ann's Well, accompanied by music, prayers and singing. The occasion began with a blessing of pets and a joint blessing of the congregation at the Promenade Gardens with interfaith ministers.

There was also a special blessing of pebbles for people to keep which had been blessed using Malvern spring water mixed with holy water brought from The Vatican and water from Malvern's twin town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre, in France.

"I feel so very humbled that so many people have turned out to take part. It has been a wonderful occasion," said Ms Needham.

The donkeys, Daisy, Alfie, Peter and Lucy, all rescued animals from sanctuaries, took part in Sunday's procession and was led by seven-year-old Grace Guidicotti-Poplawska riding 28-year-old Daisy.

Ms Needham, who has not been well for some time, said it was her last procession and wanted to thank everyone who attended and had taken part.

"As this is my last procession onto the hills, my theme for this year is how water connects every living thing and how its cycle shows us that despite all the beginnings and endings of our journey, nothing actually ever ends. Our journey really in infinite," she said.

Ms Needham was assisted by goddess and fairy helpers who took collections for the charities along the way.