FERNE Animal Sanctuary, near Chard, will host a Christmas Festival and animal blessing on Sunday (November 30).

Starting at noon, festive activities are promised for the whole family, including story time, an Elves’ Workshop and a Winter Wonderland of games and activities.

The day will conclude with an Animal Blessing in the Barn at 4pm, led by the Reverend Deborah Perreau, accompanied by the voices of the Blackdown Acapella Choir singing traditional Christmas carols.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own well-behaved pets to join in this special moment and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Emma Purnell, chief executive officer of Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: “Christmas at Ferne is such a special time of year and the whole team is looking forward to kicking off the festive season.

“Our Christmas Festival brings children, families and the local community into the sanctuary to spend time together.

“The Animal Blessing is at the heart of this event and really captures the spirit of Ferne.

“As always, all proceeds will go directly towards helping to fund the ongoing care of our animals. We invite you to come along, enjoy the seasonal activities and stay for the Animal Blessing.”

The sanctuary’s Perdida Café will be serving festive food and warming drinks throughout the day, with service starting from 10am for those who want brunch ahead of the day.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary is offering attendees a reduced entry fee of £5 per adult, £3 per child, while children under five go free.

Tickets must be pre-booked via ferneanimalsanctuary.org/product-category/workshops-courses-events.