A COUNTRYSIDE centre on the edge of Devizes that does its bit to help both animals and humans has won support from the town's rotary club.

Chris and Hellie Franklin, who run Caenhill Countryside Centre, take in abandoned and rescued animals but also does its bit to help vulnerable children and adults.

Devizes Rotary President Alan Martin was pleased that the couple were able to visit the club to share their latest news. He said: "Chris joined Devizes Rotarians and friends, at a recent meeting when he gave an illuminating presentation on the work he and his wife Hellie, do for children and disadvantaged adults at their not for profit Caenhill Countryside Centre in Devizes.

"We are pleased that Devizes Rotary is able to support their valuable work. The Centre’s seventy acre site plays host to local primary and secondary school children who benefit from their time spent on the centre’s working farm, where they gain an insight into the countryside in general, while learning about animal husbandry.

"Also benefiting from spending time at the centre, are vulnerable children and adults. The refreshing, calm atmosphere of being ‘down on the farm’ has a proven dramatic effect on their well being."

Mr Franklin showed the group a number of photographs of animals and visitors during his presentation some of which showed him leading on a farm gate post. He then encouraged the Rotarians to pose in a similar position.

Welcome to the Caenhill Countryside Centre web site. We are working with communities to bring agriculture and horticulture to children by providing courses set on a farm.

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