A TEAM of 18 volunteers has given a new lease of life to Pennyhooks Farm.

The organic farm and charity, near Shrivenham, invites children with special needs and autism to help with activities to build confidence and independence.

The team of volunteers, some travelling down from Newcastle, helped to repaint a large building used for activities called the Butterfly Room, as well as a kitchen and five toilets.

Organiser Alex Hedley from the Quilter Foundation, part of Intrinsic Financial Services, told the Adver: "We've seen what they do with the children first hand, feeding the animals, making beautiful wooden crafts, it's absolutely amazing."

The team arrived first thing in the morning before children started to arrive and finished late in the afternoon.

"It's been very worthwhile, it's really a beautiful place," added Alex.

"It's been quite a lot of work really but it looks amazing so we're pleased."

Pennyhooks farm was founded twenty years ago by Lydia Otter and Richard Hurford.

It is holding its Christmas Fayre on November 17 where people can buy the products and gifts made by the students.