Farm's appeal after 'heartbreaking' flood damage

A community farm in Lincolnshire is appealing for support to help it recover from flooding.

Fairfield Community Farm, near Ruskington, has asked for donations to help replace animal food and bedding ruined by flood water.

Owner Kathy Owen said when she saw the water in the fields, her "heart was sinking".

It currently homes over 30 animals including goats, pigs, sheep, ponies, chickens, ducks and geese.

Ms Owen said it was "heartbreaking" when the farm "turned into a river".

She said the "worst part" of the flood was moving all the animals and checking everyone was safe.

"One of the horses was absolutely freaking out. To see them standing in the water, it's quite stressful. They were absolutely terrified," she said.

Volunteer Rebecca Carr set up the fundraiser and posted about it on social media.

She wrote that it was vital for animals' pens to be cleaned as quickly as possible to prevent infections.

Local resident, Micheal, gave the farm a trailer to help with the clean-up and farmer Jeff Maplethorpe donated fresh hay for bedding.

They have raised nearly £1,400 since setting up the fundraiser on Monday.

Ms Owen said the support had been "absolutely amazing" and they have even received money from someone in Scotland.

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