A HOOK farm was the place to be during half-term for young children hoping to catch a glimpse of the newest members of the farm family.

Miller’s Ark hosted open days on the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of the final half-term week of the school year, as its opened its doors from 11am-4pm each day.

While the weather did not play its part for most of the week, remaining cold and wet, families still turned up in their droves to get their hands on the new arrivals that the farm has welcomed over the spring.

Some of the newborns on show were a group of tiny goat kids, miniature baby donkeys, tiny chicks and ducklings as well as many, many more.

Youngsters and parents alike had the chance to groom the miniature donkeys, scratch the tummies of pigs, and take a look at the bird-handling area where there were chicks, goslings, ducklings and rabbits all waiting for a cuddle.

The on-site tea barn also did the job of providing sweets and warm drinks for those that had braved the elements, serving up homemade sandwiches, special burgers, cakes and Barista style coffees.

Last week’s open days however, look like being their last for a while.

The farm often goes mobile with its animals across Hampshire and Surrey and following a packed early-summer schedule, the farm has told customers that it is unlikely it will be open before the summer holidays in late July.

2016 has so far been a hugely successful year for Miller’s Ark, when towards the end of May it was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by travel and attraction review site, Trip Advisor.

The award paid tribute and highlighted the consistent delivery of a great service to all customers passing through the farm’s gates.

The farm also continues to have its charity at the centre of its operations. Owner Elizabeth Miller set the charity up as she was passionate about the healing benefits gained from being with animals.

The charity 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.

For more information about the farm visit www.millersark.co.uk.