Stroud's much-loved donkey Alfie made his first appearance on Minchinhampton common today as the animals were released for Marking Day.

Cows and other animals have been released on Rodborough and Minchinhampton commons to graze more than 700 acres of National Trust land, and the public is being urged to be extra careful when using the commons, in order to protect the animals and those who care for them.

Residents are being asked to observe speed limits across the commons, avoid distressing animals by observing them only from a safe distance, practising responsible dog ownership by not allowing dogs to bother livestock or wash in animal troughs.

All photos taken by Simon Jones.