A RESTORATION project at a historic farm has been given a fundraising boost from another farm's open day.

Paul Richard held an open farm event at his organic herb business, herbfarmacy, near Eardisley.

He charged an entrance fee for visitors to be led on guided walks and listen to the history of his business, which raised £700 for Herefordshire Wildlife Trust’s [HWT] Birches Farm restoration appeal.

Birches Farm, just outside Kington, was finally purchased three weeks ago by HWT, who has been managing the site over the last few years.

A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the farm is a mosaic of traditionally managed meadows and is of historical significance as well as high biodiversity value.

Having now secured the ownership of the site, HWT has now launched the Birches Farm restoration appeal with the aim of restoring the traditional barns and making the site safe and accessible for the public.

The trust’s John Clark said: “It’s fantastic to have secured Birches Farm both for wildlife and for future generations to enjoy and learn from.

"This generous donation from Paul and the team at herbfarmacy will really help to kick start the fundraising that will enable us to welcome the public to Birches Farm.”

To donate go to www.justgiving.com/BirchesRestoration. The next guided walks at Birches Farm will be in September: www.herefordshirewt.org.