AN animal sanctuary has launched its Christmas fundraising campaign.

Goodheart Farm Animal Sanctuary, near Tenbury is home to over 300 rescued animals including pigs, cows, goats, chickens and even alpacas. Some of the animals are former pets whose owners could no longer look after them, while others have been saved from situations of cruelty and neglect.

Goodheart’s Christmas appeal, entitled ‘Deck the Stalls’ invites locals to donate towards covering essential costs and help keep the animals warm and well-fed over the winter months.

On Christmas Eve, the animals at Goodheart will experience a visit from Father Christmas himself, which will be captured and shared across Goodheart's social media channels.

Goodheart’s project director Alison Hood said: “It's been a challenging year across the charity sector, but the last 12 months has seen an even steeper rise in the costs of everyday expenses from animal feed, medication and equipment to fuel and energy bills.

“Every donation, no matter how small, helps us continue our important work caring for animals in need.”