South Down Sheep Centre visit to Mais House

First came the animals and birds of South Down Sheep Centre which were then followed by the children of St Mary Magdalene catholic primary school.

Activities organiser at the Royal British Legion in Hastings Road, Alan Bearne said: "The mobile farm brought sheep, lambs, chickens, a donkey, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, dogs and a goose. We thought we would invite one of the classes from a primary school as well, so St Mary Magdalene brought a group up to enjoy the farm at the same time as us.

"It was great for the residents because they had the double whammy of the farm and the children as well. It was lovely.

"Some of the residents bottle-fed the lambs, while some were able to take a rabbit in their arms, and handle them. It was really nice for the ones that can't see very well because they could touch the rabbits.

"The children just loved everything about it - they were fascinated by the ferrets and delighted by the donkey...

"All the animals were used to being handled so there were no worries there.

"We would certainly do it again. It has been a really lovely experience for everyone concerned."