AN animal sanctuary in the Dengie will be hosting a string of events in the lead up to Christmas.

Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary, in Asheldham, is staging a yoga fundraiser this Sunday and a Christmas Eve party on Monday.

The fundraising class is from noon to 2.30pm and will be led by Julie Zirngast of Yoga Breath and Body.

There will also be festive nibbles, drinks and a tour of the sanctuary.

A suggested minimum donation for this event is £20 per person.

On Monday, the sanctuary is holding is a vegan tea party at its new Gracedale Farm site, in Bradwell, from 2pm to 5pm.

Visitors will be able to see the animals on a tour of the farm. The sanctuary is encouraging visitors to stay for Christmas Day.

Tower Hill is home to more than 450 rescued animals, including domestic and ex-farm animals.

It was founded in 1993 by Fiona Oakes, who cares for all the animals across five locations in Essex.

A spokesman said: “This is a chance for supporters of the animal sanctuary to come in and enjoy a hot drink and slice of cake and see the rescued animals at the new farm site.

“The new farm site is a huge, new and significant step for the animal sanctuary as it provides future security for the rescued animals that we care for.

“We may also screen Fiona’s film Running For Good which has just been released and is by award-winning documentary maker Keegan Kuhn.”

All proceeds for both events will go towards the sanctuary. A suggested donation for the tea party is £25 per person.

To pre-book, email fiona@towerhillstables.com or visit towerhillstables.com.