AN animal rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming charity has announced the return of its popular family and pet friendly activity day.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary, which is based in the Blackdown Hills above Wellington, will host its pet celebration event on Saturday, (February 21) from 10 am to 4 pm.

Set within the grounds of the 72-acre sanctuary, keen animal-lovers and their pooches will have the opportunity to join a four-mile community walk through the countryside from the animal sanctuary to the Cotley Inn.

The day continues with a range of activities including a willow workshop, pet friendly lucky dip and gift boxes, pet themed arts and crafts in the creative corner, and an online photo caption competition.

Refreshments will be available all day from the on-site café, Perdida.

Ferne chief executive Emma Purnell said: “We are excited to kick off our events season with the return of the pet celebration.

“The team has worked hard to bring back some of our favourite elements from previous years, while adding new offerings to the day our supporters love so much.

“As always, the proceeds from the day will be used to support the animals in our care.”

In addition to the activities included in the £5 ticket price, local willow sculptor Fon Cosens will host a workshop to teach participants how to make and decorate their own willow hare for the home or garden.

Tickets for the willow session should be pre-booked and are priced at £65 per person.

For those who cannot attend in person, the schedule of online activities includes Ferne’s Pet Caption Competition, which is accepting pet photo and caption entries at £2 per submission until February 21.

The favourite photographs will be displayed as part of a trail at the sanctuary.