Donkeys will be used to carry shopping for residents in Chalford

Donkeys have arrived at a remote village to help residents fed up with hauling their shopping up a steep hill.

More than 30 residents living on the narrow paths of Chalford, Gloucestershire, are unable to reach their properties by car.

But rather than calling for better road access, locals believe donkeys - which were used in the village until the 1950s - will offer an eco-friendly alternative for deliveries.

The idea, first suggested in January, has won the support of homeowners, some of who suggest cars in the area should be banned altogether in favour of the animals.

Anna Usborne, who led the campaign, has taken delivery of two donkeys - Chester, one, and Teddy, four.

The animals, which are currently living in a nearby paddock, are now being trained to help villagers fed up with carrying their shopping up the incline to their homes.

Ms Usborne, a 33-year-old sculptor, said: "It could take six weeks or six months to train them. It all depends on how well they behave. We are very excited to have them with us. They are lovely, gentle animals."

Ms Usborne applied to the parish council for support after being quoted prices ranging from £300 to £600 to buy the donkeys from a local sanctuary.

Teddy was bought from a beach donkey dealer in South Wales while Chester arrived from Cotswold Farm Park.

Dave Andrews, who lives on Rack Hill, previously said the entire village backed the campaign to "bring back the Chalford Donkey".