From friendly ferrets to a snuggly snake, the young people on Amelia Trust’s GROW programme thoroughly enjoyed introducing the High Sheriff of South Glamorgan to the animals at the Farm.

On Thursday 16th March, the High Sheriff of South Glamorgan, Rosaleen Moriarty-Simmonds OBE, and her consort, Stephen, visited Amelia Trust Farm. After the cuddly ferrets, Rosie was a little unsure of Basil the snake and Pogo the bearded dragon…but it didn’t take long for Basil and Pogo to win Rosie round.

The young people told Rosie why they enjoy being at the Farm. They discussed what they do each day, and how much the animals and being part of the Care Farm mean to them. They told her about how their confidence has grown during their time on the GROW programme and how much they have learnt.

Alongside homemade cakes baked by Trust volunteers, Rosie and Stephen met volunteers, trustees, staff, and partners of the Farm. A young volunteer played a video he had made of the animals at the Farm, and volunteers chatted about their involvement with Amelia Trust. Rosie heard about the many groups that benefit from being part of the Amelia Trust ‘Farmily’, as well as the plans to transform the old café building into a community café with improved facilities for disabled people.

Director of Amelia Trust, Karen Turnbull, said, “Rosie and Stephen brought happiness and a ray of sunshine even though the weather was wet and miserable. Rosie is such an inspiration to everyone and has so many entertaining stories that listening to her speak is always a pleasure. We were delighted to receive recognition from the High Sheriff of South Glamorgan for our work. It really does mean a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming them again- hopefully in better weather.”

At the end of their visit, Rosie presented a High Sheriff Award Certificate to Amelia Trust. The certificate recognised the charity’s great and valuable work in the community.

Amelia Trust is a small charity supporting disadvantaged and vulnerable people in a countryside setting, an a special place that encourages everyone to enjoy the benefits of being outdoor in nature. Visit their website for more information including activities at the Farm during the Easter holidays: www.ameliatrust.org.uk.