STAFF at the Horse Trust in Speen are making sure their horses don't go without presents this year.

As well as being looked after and kept warm over the cold period staff are providing the animals, many of whom are retired work horses, with stockings full of their favorites: carrots and apples.

The horses will be routinely checked all throughout Christmas day by head groom Charli Pardon.

He said: "It will be a busy day as I'll have to give all the horses their afternoon feed, as well as doing a late night check at 10pm. I don't mind working Christmas day, I look forward to seeing the horses."

Entrance to the sanctuary is free, but donations are welcomed so that the Trust can meet its running costs.

The Horse Trust's Home of Rest for Horses plans to open between 2pm and 4pm every day over the Christmas period apart from today, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Recent snow and icy conditions meant the Trust had to close to visitors temporarily.

Entrance to the sanctuary, which cares for more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys, is free, but donations are welcomed to help the charity meet its running costs.

It costs £17 to pay for all the costs of looking after a horse for a day, including feed, veterinary bills and farrier costs.

Go to www.horsetrust.org.uk, for more details.