A BARN that has not been used fully since a devastating fire eight years ago is being turned into a reception so visitors to Roves Farm can be socially distanced.

The blaze in May 2012 destroyed the visitor centre, but although the newly-built Jubilee picnic barn escaped the flames it was wasn’t much used after the old lambing shed was converted into the main barn, cafe and farm shop.

Now the attraction near South Marston is transforming it into a reception hall and gift shop.

New walk-in paddocks, one in the animal barn and another outside have also been introduced where visitors can get up close with the sheep and goats once the second Covid lockdown is lifted and it is allowed to re-open to the public.

Speaking just before the lockdown was announced manager Katie Allen said: “It’s so nice to see kids carrying around bags of food for the animals so we have goats and sheep. People are really enjoying it and we have pet corners because they like the cuddles.

“After the fire the building had no purpose really. We can control it more like this.

“The building wasn’t reaching its full potential but now it can.

“With relocating to another barn we can spread out. To allow us to continue to manage the flow of people and improve how we operate this will now become our new reception and gift shop.”

The 37-year-old from North Swindon has been manager for four years. She is organising a Christmas grotto so families can go to see Father Christmas in a socially distanced way.

“There will be no nativity plays allowed this year. So we’re going to be having a lot more animal activities instead this December.”

The farm is open today for people who have booked online. And during lockdown, set to last until December 2 at least, staff are working on plans for the Christmas experience.

In a statement on social media staff thanked the public for its support and said: “As we continue to follow the Government guidelines we will be closing from Thursday 5th November. If you have a valid membership these will be extended to match the period closed. Anyone who has booked to visit will be contacted soon.

“We will continue to get ready for our Christmas activities and will keep you updated.

“We will be looking to get our walks set up for you all to enjoy whilst we are closed and our farm shop will remain open.”