AN OPEN farm has raised a record-breaking amount towards a village hall fund.

Brook Street Farm, in Halstead, was open for the day, raising £4,686 for the Courtauld Memorial Hall Centenary Fund.

Thousands of visitors had the chance to explore the farm and even watch some of the sheep give birth to their lambs for a £2 entry fee.

Liz Barrow, who organises the event every two years, said the grand total was the most the event had ever raised.

She said: “It was more than we could have hoped to raise – we really did break the barriers.”

In previous years the event has raised about £1,400, so Liz said to raise more than £4,000 for the hall, in Colne Engaine, was amazing.

More than 1,500 people came along to meet the lambs, and Liz described the day as a “big party”.

“It was a lovely atmosphere, every car that came down the road seemed to come here.

“I’m so happy the children could have that freedom, just like it used to be like when people were carefree.”

Liz said that opening the farm is not only a great way to raise money for a special cause but also important for them and the public.

She said: “Opening the farm helps others to see what goes on here.

“We care for the animals while they are here and they have a natural life where they can play in the grass and drink their mothers’ milk.”

After a successful day of fun and fundraising, Liz said she is incredibly grateful to everyone who came along to support the cause and to all those who helped.

She added: “I would like to thank everyone who helped out, even people who aren’t connected to the village hall, especially my husband Alan and his brother Roy.”