A FARM that offers hands-on experience to people with learning difficulties is appealing for community support.

Cowden Farm at Charminster, a not for-profit community interest company, is looking for volunteers and people to help it carry out its valuable work.

The 37-acre farm offers a range of outdoor skills and activities for people to get involved in.

Community co-ordinator Siobhan Davis said: “We do horticulture, small animal care, arts and crafts, countryside awareness, equestrian, farm maintenance, woodwork, computer skills and fishing.”

Cowden Farm also provides a home for rescue donkeys, ponies, hens and goats.

Mrs Davis said Sainsbury’s in Dorchester kindly provided food for the animals but she is looking for offers of support to help cover other costs such as veterinary bills.

She said: “We are looking at maybe getting schools, younger children and other people to sponsor a donkey or one of our Shetland ponies and they can come in and groom them.

“Any help or sponsorship we can get would be great.”

Mrs Davis said there were around 70 adults with learning disabilities who currently visited the farm and really appreciated the opportunities offered to them.

She said: “People have to want to come here as it’s an alternative to a day centre service so it costs money to come.

“We get some people who come here three days a week and they absolutely love it.”

Mrs Davis said the farm gave people a chance to pick up skills that could prove valuable for seeking employment and she was looking to obtain some work placements in the future.

The farm is now looking for volunteers to come in and help support its dedicated team of staff.

Mrs Davis said: “Cowden Farm is the friendliest place.”

Cowden Farm is holding open days on June 23 and June 24 from 11am to 2pm and a tea and chat session at the farm on June 8 from 10am until noon. Contact Mrs Davis on 01305 250444 or 07786 555756.

You can also email chev63@hotmail.co.uk