Reindeer in the city for charity Christmas event

Devon Wildlife Trust will be celebrating Christmas with its popular annual family event at the charity’s Cricklepit Mill, in the heart of Exeter.

The converted medieval mill and garden will be open from 11am to 4pm on Sunday 11 December for the event.

Stars of the show at this year’s Christmas at Cricklepit are likely to be the reindeer from a North Devon farm. Visitors will be able to pet and feed the reindeer before they see Father Christmas in his traditional green costume.

Children will also have the chance to create natural Christmas decorations out of willow and make bird feeders to give garden birds a nutritious, festive treat. A fun wildlife trail will also be set up in the garden.

Mince pies, hot drinks and live seasonal music will be available to keep visitors refreshed and entertained, while the charity’s wildlife Christmas cards and calendars will be on sale.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Jo Pullin, who is organising the day, said: ‘Every year, we see dozens of families having a great time at Christmas at Cricklepit. It’s a chance to have some fun, to explore one of Exeter’s historic mills and help Devon’s wildlife. Children will be able to take away new Christmas decorations they’ve made, as well as the memory of meeting reindeer in the city. The event always provides a welcome break from hectic Christmas shopping!’

Some of the activities are in gazebos in the garden, so visitors should wear warm clothing. Activities take place throughout the day, with no requirement to book places. Entry to Cricklepit Mill for this event is £2 per child and £1 per adult. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Cricklepit Mill can be found in Commercial Road, Exeter, EX2 4AB - two minutes’ walk from Exeter’s historic quayside. There is no parking at the Mill, but on street parking and car parks can be found close by.

For more information about this event and the work of Devon Wildlife Trust visit www.devonwildlifetrust.org