Mane Chance Sanctuary in Compton is asking for support this Christmas.

The sanctuary's popular Christmas events have had to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, leaving a shortfall of £15,000 in its budget.

A spokesman told Nub News: "We have some wonderful virtual fundraising gifts and events that you can buy or take part in to help us. And it will give you that 'feelgood factor', knowing you will help to keep our horses fed and the sanctuary open to deliver our much-needed community programme, which provides stability and well-being to vulnerable and disadvantaged people."

The sanctuary is offering the following gift ideas this Christmas, in addition to the wide range of items available in its online shop, including Christmas cards, 2021 calendars and a range of gifts.

A personal video message from Father Christmas. Imagine the excitement on your children's faces when they get a video message from the great man himself just before Christmas! This will be a good alternative to visiting him in his traditional Grotto, and each personal message will include all the special hopes and wishes of each child that you book for. This costs £15 per child. You can book here: Message from Santa.

A virtual gin tasting with Pinkster Gin on Wednesday, 25th November. This will be hosted by Mane Chance founder Jenny Seagrove, together with Ginmeister Stephen Marsh. At just £40 for a tasting kit which is sufficient for 2 people, recipients can enjoy a great night in with some delicious Gins. Book here: Gin Tasting.

A Christmas Day Virtual Balloon Race. Balloons cost £3 each, there is no limit to the number of balloons you can buy, and there are some great prizes up for grabs! Buy here: Balloons.

Sponsor one of the horses. For £2 per month you will receive a certificate, photo, and regular email updates, as well as a birthday card, and you can visit your special horse at the sanctuary on allocated days. Find out more here: Sponsorship.

For more details visit the Mane Chance website.

Mane Chance Sanctuary was founded nine years ago by actress Jenny Seagrove. She rescued abandoned and mistreated horses and ponies, giving them a home, a place to recover and time to rehabilitate.

The horses now give their support to vulnerable children and young adults, helping them to build confidence, resilience, and self-belief.

Despite the restrictions of Covid-19 and lockdown, in line with Government guidelines and working alongside schools that remain open, as an educational establishment Mane Chance Sanctuary can continue much of this vital work.

To learn more about the work of Mane Chance Sanctuary visitthe website.