Cycling fans can meet some friendly donkeys in Eccup while camping over the Tour de France’s opening weekend.

The Donkey Sanctuary’s local centre is opening a temporary campsite for the Grand Depart that will open the day before the race starts, on Friday, July 4.

The site – dogs on leads welcome – will offer breakfasts and snacks, with a licensed bar and barbecue available at nights.

Centre manager Cathryn Williams said: “We can’t wait to open our temporary campsite for what’s going to be an amazing weekend.

“We’re so excited to be so close to the Tour site and are looking forward to welcoming many cycling fans, families and animals to camp with us and enjoy the spectacle.

“We are just a matter of miles from all the top spots to watch the top riders in the world so we could not be more excited.

“We know the donkeys will love having guests to stay, they are such adorable creatures and will love all the extra attention. Campers will have the chance to meet and pet them, or even ‘adopt’ one.

“And by staying here they’ll be helping us provide free riding therapy to children with additional needs.”

Based on Swan Lane, off Blackhill Lane, Eccup, the centre provides donkey-assisted riding therapy to about 190 children every week.

For full details about the campsite or to book a place, call (0113) 261 9249 or e-mail dat.leeds@thedonkey sanctuary.org.uk.