A Carlisle husband bought his wife a donkey for Valentine's Day, according to a report in the Cumberland News.

Instead of the stereotypical presents usually associated with the romantic occasion, Marion Stephenson was handed the creature - called Maggie - by her other half John.

Ms Stephenson told the newspaper that it was "the most romantic thing" her husband had ever done for her.

Last year, the couple's anniversary gifts included two donkeys, while they also received an ass for Christmas to add to their collection of animals.

"Every time I look at [the donkey], I will think of John," said Ms Stephenson. "People think donkeys are bad tempered and stubborn, but they're not."

The gift was delivered to a field near the couple's home and came as a surprise to the happy recipient.

Continuing on the Valentine's Day theme, research from Lloyds TSB this week found that 43.3 per cent of employees would choose to leave work early on February 14th to see their loved ones, rather than accept a cash bonus from their managers.