Questions over identity of parasailing donkey

Anapka was forced to parasail in a publicity stunt.

The mass-circulation newspaper stepped in after the July 15 publicity stunt in which a donkey was forced to parasail over a Russian tourist beach.

The act was roundly condemned by animal welfare groups as The Sun swooped in and bought 17-year-old Anapka, announcing she would never parasail again.

However, questions have now emerged over whether Anapka is the donkey that was forced to take the flight.

While The Sun has been delighting readers with its plans to rehome Anapka in Britain, and recounting her arrival at luxury stables in Moscow, a Russian tabloid has been reporting that Anapka is not the real deal.

The Guardian newspaper has not been backward in telling its readers about the latest revelations, suggesting the Russian businessman who reportedly parted with Anapka for 70,000 roubles, or £1500, had "made an ass" out of The Sun.

The Russian-language tabloid Komsomolskaya Pravda claims the real donkey is named Manya, and she remains with the Russian businessman Vasily Gorobets.

Gorobets was reported by The Guardian as saying: "I can't believe they didn't notice the trick. Manya's with me and I'm guarding her closely. I wouldn't give her away for anything."

While Donkeygate is likely to roll on for a while yet, pressure continues on Russian authorities to mount a prosecution over the the 30-minute parasailing ride, which had the animal braying in fear and left children in tears.

Former actress and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot has written to Russian officials demanding action.