MILLER’S Ark Farm celebrated its 25th anniversary with a weekend of celebrations.

The farm opened its gates last weekend for families to come and enjoy their anniversary festivities.

Visitors were greeted by open pens, with children and parents alike able to cuddle baby donkeys, groom the farm’s ponies, play with the bouncing goats, tickle pigs’ tummies and sit and hold a whole range of small fluffy animals.

When farmgoers weren’t in awe of the animals, they had the chance to browse the stalls featuring superb local products.

There was also a wide range of food and refreshments on offer, including a barbecue with a hog roast, cream teas, Miller’s Ark apple juice and much more.

Vintage vehicles also captured the imagination of both young and old, with old fire engines and cars all part of what was a brilliant opening weekend of birthday celebrations.

The funds from the celebrations will be split between two organisations, Miller’s Ark itself and its accompanying charity Animal Touch.

The admission fees will be heading to Miller’s Ark’s coffers and all other money taken will go to Animal Touch, which sets about making a safe space for people who want to escape the noise and stress in their lives and reconnect with themselves and others, or enjoy family time away from the public eye.

One of the novel ways it attracts donations is through local business, Antiques of Odiham.

The antiques guru and the farm are encouraged people to bring along their old items for a valuation, for the cost of a small donation to the charity.

It proved to be a hugely successful feature throughout the day, along with the welly wanging and tug of war.

Other hits included children’s face painting, ballon making and apple bobbing.

Writing on their Facebook page ahead of the celebrations the farm said: “We have survived some challenging situations, like the ‘foot and mouth’ outbreak and losing our original farm at Roke, but throughout it all families like yourselves have remained loyal supporters.

“Each of us on the team have special memories of sharing our farm with you, sometimes at life changing events.

“Elizabeth and all her team would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been part of our amazing 25-year journey, and we look forward to sharing the next 25 years with all our friends.”

The birthday celebrations will continue in October.