Muddy Stilettos: River Bourne Community Farm wins Wiltshire award

River Bourne Community Farm, in Laverstock, won the online lifestyle brand's annual award for the first time since opening in 2010.

The free-to-visit farm offers entertainment to visitors and non-mainstream education to roughly 80 pupils aged eight to 18 who struggle in a classroom environment.

It's fun for the whole family with its range of typical farmyard animals such as horses and donkeys in addition to less common species of Valais Blacknose sheep and a Kunekune pig.

Stan, the boar, sits like a dog on command and visitors can feed most of the animals with a small donation.

Stan sits like a dog. (Image: Newsquest)

Education and marketing manager Sara-Jane Hancock said the farm is "absolutely delighted" to have won the "prestigious" award.

"We were up against so great attractions but we think we were the only one that is completely free to visit," she added.

"We want to thank everyone who voted for us as it has been a tough few months having to deal with the relentless rain, as anyone who works outside and with animals will understand."

Located alongside the historic Laverstock water meadows, the farm's main focus is educating young people and serving the local community by providing volunteering opportunities.

There is also an on-site cafe selling eggs, produce, drinks and light lunches open from 9am to 2pm weekdays and 10am to 3pm weekends.

Read more about Salisbury's winners:

• Artisan Wine & Spirit Co, Salisbury, win Muddy Stilettos award

Winning the Muddy Stilettos award has given staff and volunteers a "huge lift", Sara-Jane said: "As ever we thank our amazing staff and volunteers for keeping everything well cared for in trying times.

"We also want to congratulate all the other brilliant businesses in Salisbury who won awards – didn’t our city do well!"

Sara-Jane with Eric the goat. (Image: Newsquest)

River Bourne Community Farm was founded by Benjamin A Parker MBE, who grew up on a small dairy farm in the Midlands during the 1960s.

Mr Parker saw how children were becoming increasingly detached from the source of their food, the rural environment and their local communities.

So, having spent time working with Salisbury social services, Mr Parker decided to create a Community Interest working farm to give youngsters the chance to connect with animals and the environment.

The farm will now be entered into the national finals to be judged by an expert panel with the finalists being announced in July.