FERNE Animal Sanctuary will be hosting a children’s author for an afternoon of story-telling.

North Devon author, Claire Barker will be reading from her essential guide for imaginative young guardians of nature, entitled Hettie Nettle’s Handbook for Hedgewitches, on Thursday, August 21, from 12pm.

‘Hettie Nettle’, which is being released this month, has been both written and illustrated by Claire.

The Ferne Animal Sanctuary event will include a talk from the author, a question and answer session, and a book signing session.

A spokesperson for the sanctuary said: “Surrounded by wildlife and inspired by the Five Animal Freedoms, this is a unique chance for children to connect with stories, animals, and the natural world.”