ANIMALS helped spread a little Christmas magic, delighting crowds who had flocked to Bleakholt on Sunday (Nov 30) for the shelter's seasonal fair.

Horses joined in the spirit of Christmas for a special "reindeer" parade at the annual fete, which also doubled up as an open day.

It gave visitors an opportunity to find out more about the work of the sanctuary and meet some of the numerous animals which have been abandoned.

And pictured making friends with Prancer the "reindeer" pony is Rebecca Lowe (7).

Mrs Linda Clarricoates, office worker, said: "We have already had a number of phone calls from people who attended the fair, saying that after seeing the sanctuary they would like to become volunteers, for which we are very grateful."

She added: "We are so pleased the weather stayed fine for us because so many people turned up to support the event with their own pets. The animals were definitely the star attraction on the day."

As well as seeing how the centre operates, visitors picked up a bargain or two on the many stalls and children were entertained by Splodge the Clown.

Money raised on the day to support the work of the shelter is still being counted.