AN animal rescue sanctuary is launching a new scheme to keep children entertained during the six-week summer break.

The 'Keeper for a Day' programme, set up by Wetheriggs Animal Centre at Thorpe Farm, County Durham, is designed to appeal to young animal lovers.

The centre is home to around 1,000 animals including rare breed pigs, llamas, pygmy goats and miniature donkeys along with guinea pigs and rabbits in the petting area.

Wetheriggs director Terry Bowes said: “Our Keeper for a Day scheme is a great opportunity for children to go behind the scenes and get some hands-on experience of looking after our animals.

“We tailor the day to each child so, if they love donkeys and ponies, they can be keeper for that section.”

A forest school, Influence in the Forest, will also run from the sight as Thorpe Farm has acres of heritage woodland for children to explore.

Mr Bowes added: “We’ll be doing all the things that many of us remember enjoying as a child like whittling or building dens and yurts in the wood.

“English Heritage recently urged youngsters to work through a to-do list of activities before the age of 11-and-three-quarters and our forest school will mean they can tick off many of those.”

Influence in the Forest days can be booked by clubs and organisations and the Keeper for the Day can be booked by individual members of the public.

Wetheriggs summer club is £35 per day for a first child and £15 for any additional children. Booking is available on 01833-627444 or 07764-352835.