A SPECIAL festive event for children with special needs and disabilities attracted more than 200 people to Farmer Palmer’s farm park.

Youngsters got the chance to pet and feed farmyard animals, before meeting Santa in his grotto.

The event, organised by Artz+, Sportz+ and Poole Short Breaks, took place last week – and even the heavy rainfall failed to dampen spirits.

Jude Allen, cultural development officer at West Dorset District Council – one of the organisers of the day out – told the Daily Echo: “We provide activities for children with disabilities, and this family fun day was so that invited families could have a great day out.”

Children taking park in the initiative enjoyed meeting the animals and experiencing other special attractions.

Mrs Allen said: “We had an artist come along to create a giant reindeer which proved very popular with the children.”

This paper mache sculpture will now adorn the offices of West Dorset District Council throughout January.

“We had a competition to name the reindeer and the children chose Dancer,” said Mrs Allen.

“The children really enjoyed the chance to hold the guinea pigs and feed the lambs.

“They got a lot out of the experience.”

The park’s newly born piglets were also well received.

Mrs Allen said: “This is only the second time we’ve held it at Farmer Palmer’s and we are happy with the numbers.”

Organisers say they’ll be looking at holding the event at the Purbeck farm park attraction next year as well.

Artz+, Sportz+ and Poole Short Breaks provide workshops and activities throughout the year.

For more information on the workshops visit the website dorsetforyou.com or contact Borough of Poole.