Jaywick community farm raise funds to protect animals this winter
The self funded charity project are hoping to open soon
As parents of a child with special needs Gary and Sandra want others to see the positive impact animals can have.
They are currently working hard to open a community farm in Jaywick to provide the local community with not only a great place to visit but an inclusive, community led enterprise that will benefit people and help regenerate the area.
The couples animals which includes sheep, goats, ducks chickens, birds of prey, horses and rabbits are currently being housed at various locations across the county while they await a decision on a piece of land for the community farm.
Sandra and Gary have also saved and released several wild animals and rehomed several dogs and cats.
Sandys Farm is set to be a sustainable site, both environmentally and financially.
Gary told us more about what we can expect from the farm:
"We'll have lots of things there, lots of animals, hopefully a farm shop, educational facilities, workshops and load and loads of lovely animals people can meet."
Sandy's Farm will also generate employment opportunities and support both apprenticeships and supported internships.
The couple are funding care for all the animals themselves, but are asking for help so they can build shelter to keep them safe and warm throughout the winter.
You can find out about the community farm and make a donation here.
Following an open day last month Sandy's farm thanked people on Facebook:
Thanks for all the lovely messages after our amazing open day yesterday we have been inundated with emails please if you feel that Sandys Farm would be good for Jaywick please please send your comments to Tendring District Council in our support, we had well over 500 visitors yesterday and this is a clear indication that people like our ideas and its needed, people came from all over Essex.