SUPPORTERS of a Christmas Fair at a Sidmouth donkey-riding centre for children with special needs, will be able to adopt a donkey as well as meet Father Christmas.

SUPPORTERS of a Christmas Fair at a Sidmouth donkey-riding centre for children with special needs, will be able to adopt a donkey as well as meet Father Christmas.

The annual fair, to raise funds for The Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys (EST), takes place at the centre tomorrow (Saturday, December 6) from 10am to 1pm.

Admission is free and there will be refreshments, including mulled wine and mince pies on offer.

Lauriel Harris, who runs the centre says, "Our Christmas Fair has become an annual fundraising event and this year we are raising funds for new play equipment for the children. Our fair is great fun and the children get pleasure from visiting Father Christmas in his grotto."

EST has four adorable donkeys the public can adopt for £15, including Daniel P, pictured, making a unique Christmas gift. Money raised helps support the work of the charity.

Christmas wreaths will be sold and there will be a range of stalls offering goods for sale.

Sidmouth College students will sing carols during the fair and there will be a tombola.

EST's centre is attended by over 150 children with special needs and disabilities from 15 schools each week, all within the Sidmouth and surrounding area.

It makes no charge to the schools or parents whose children attend and staffing is strongly supported by a dedicated group of volunteers who help with the riding sessions.

To find out more telephone 01395 573009 or visit www.elisabethsvendsentrust.org.uk