A national veterinary charity has invited children to a party on Saturday in Blackpool, where they can meet animals and learn how to care for them.

PDSA provides free veterinary care for the sick and injured pets of those unable to afford veterinary fees. It also promotes responsible pet ownership.

The charity's young PDSA arm is hosting the party at Farmer Parrs Animal World, in Fleetwood.

Young supporters, called Pet Protectors, can meet other members, take part in a talk and demonstration by a PDSA vet, and find out what it is like to work in a PDSA PetAid hospital.

There will also be a lucky dip, face-painting, a raffle, the chance to buy Pet Protectors goodies, as well as animal-themed activities. Animals on the farm include pigs, rabbits, guinea pigs, cows, sheep and an owl.

Children who are already Pet Protectors Club members are entitled to free entry and will be treated to a party lunch. Refreshments will also be on sale during the open day.

Vicki Craighill, from Young PDSA, said: "We held our first Pet Protectors party last November and children loved it so much that we decided to hold more.

"We'd love to see lots of children at all our events as we know how important animals are to them and how they want to care for them properly.

"But it's not only children who will enjoy the fun. Adults will be able to ask our vets and nurses questions about caring for pets and can also encourage their children to become involved with PDSA."

The day starts at 12 noon at Wyrefield Farm, on Rossall Lane. Entry costs £4.50 for adults, £4 for children aged 2-16, and youngsters under two years old and Pet Protectors can enter for free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The event is expected to finish by 4.30pm.

For an annual fee of £10, members of the Pet Protectors club receive a personalised membership card, birthday card, badge, free gift and a copy of the club magazine, Animal Antics, six times a year.

As well as all the free activities inside the venue, there are pony rides, costing £2, and tractor for £1.

To join the Pet Protectors please contact Vicki Craighill on freephone 0800 0199144, email petprotectors@pdsa.org.uk, or join online at youngpdsa.org.uk.