FERNE Animal Sanctuary’s Christmas Fair has raised more than £1,000 for the charity.

Despite the near freezing temperatures, Ferne was host to more stalls than ever, with a delightful range of local arts and crafts on display.

The Mayor of Chard, Cllr Jenny Kenton opened the event and a spokesperson from the charity said:

“Father Christmas visited Ferne for the day to the delight of many young children and he delivered a few early Christmas presents too.”

A Christmas Blessing was also held as visitors sang festive carols, and enjoyed a rendition of King of Kings, Miracle Child, and The Candlelight Carol by Chard Local Kids Society for Music and Drama.

The Reverend Val Hoare, of Combe St Nicholas Church, said a prayer for all visitors, and staff, including all of the animals brought along by their owners to enjoy the evening.

The charity wanted to thank Barleymow’s for donating two Christmas trees and Tesco’s in Chard for donating vouchers for the mulled wine and mince pies.