AN animal sanctuary is to celebrate 18 years being based in Evesham with an open day and fundraising auction.

The Farm Animal Sanctuary, based at the Manor Orchard Farm, in Middle Littleton, is holding the open day from 1pm on Sunday, September 4.

At the open day a silent auction, which includes a variety of items, will begin which runs until December 11 - when winners will be announced.

Among the items in the auction are personal items donated by Joanna Lumley, a friend and patron of the charity since it was founded 22 years ago.

The items include signed publicity photos taken on the set of the recent Absolutely Fabulous film, a section of Joanna's personal script, a signed script from the television series, and a pair of underpants signed not only by Joanna but also by Jennifer Saunders, Jamie Theakston and Emma Bunton, formerly of the Spice Girls.

The open day will also have see representatives from charities in need of funds including Avon Cat Rescue, Redditch Cat Rescue, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Heart of England Ferret Association, Battery Hen Welfare Trust and Grace's Rest.

Refreshments from Jelly Pickle Jam will be available as well as home made cakes.

There will also be stalls, a raffle, sheep shearing demonstrations, a weaving and knitting demonstration and a tombola.