RECYCLING-savvy staff at a Chipping Norton supermarket have been sending leftover food donations to animals at Fairytale Farm.

And the family farm, based in Southcombe, is offering visitors the chance to hand-feed animals the waste fruit, vegetables and bread it receives from the Midcounties Co-operative.

Nick Laister, director at Fairytale Farm, said: "Feeding the animals the left over fruit and vegetables from our local Co-operative Food store really brings children's - and their families' - encounters with the farm animals to life.

"It’s the kind of close encounter that is so difficult to come by, especially for families with less able children. It can really make the visit for many of our younger guests.

"We like to ensure the farm is accessible and enjoyable for all, and we always welcome families with disabled children."

The donations follow the introduction of Co-operative’s Regional Communities Strategy, which encourages staff to take on activities to benefit local people.

Adam Quinton, store manager at the Chipping Norton shop, said: "We’re committed to cutting down waste, so are pleased to be able to re-use our waste fresh food in environmentally and socially responsible ways.

"Donating this waste food to Fairytale Farm is a great way for us not only to re-use this food responsibly, but also support a fantastic local attraction.

“We will continue to support groups in the community, such as Fairytale Farm, to make a meaningful impact to the local community."