AMELIA Trust Farm has raised thousands of pounds which will be used to help fund a project to assist disabled and vulnerable children.

In November the Barry-based charity decided to participate in the Big Give project, and use raised funds for their planned project called Animals Supporting Vulnerable People.

Karen Turnbull, director of the animal charity, said the money would go a long way.

"The Waterloo Foundation made us aware of the opportunity to apply for the Big Give charity project, which will match fund every raised £1 by doubling it.

"We raised £5,434 but it will now be doubled to £10,868.

"Over the years we have helped many vulnerable children on our farm and it is wonderful to think that this money will continue to help others."

The Animals Supporting Vulnerable People project would involve vulnerable and disabled children developing a "close rapport" with animals.

"People feel much better when in the company of animals," said Ms Turnbull.

"We want to build up relations between animals and people, as the potential could be huge.

"Take donkeys, for instance, they are incredibly intelligent and emotional animals so could relate well with sad people.

"Animals have the potential to raise people's spirits, hence our decision to push this project."

The raised money will be used for staffing costs and animal maintenance to help make the planned project "a great success".

"Donkeys cost a lot of money, especially as they need regular dental checks," said the former Newport University worker.

"Projects like these cost a lot of money and we are supporting lots of children, who need our help."

She added: "A lot of hard work has gone into making the money, including organising a Christmas fair and running bag packing events in super markets.

"We're going to introduce the project next year."

For information on the charity, visit http://www.ameliatrust.org.uk/