CHILDREN’S charity CHICKS hosted an open day at their Devon retreat, based in Brentor.

Around 50 people came along to find out more about the charity’s work, and generously donated a total of £209.85.

CHICKS provides free respite breaks for disadvantaged children, who are aged from eight to 15, from all across the UK.

The charity hosts the respite breaks at its retreats in Brentor, Cornwall and Derbyshire.

Regional fund-raiser Sarah Roberts said: ‘It was fantastic to be able to show so many people around the retreat, and we were really lucky with the weather!

‘I’d like to thank everyone who came along and donated.’

The children the charity supports come from a variety of backgrounds.

Many are living in poverty, whilst others are young carers for parents or siblings, victims of abuse or have suffered a bereavement.

The children spend five days with the charity, and have the chance to try new activities as well as relax and spend time in the countryside.

Each week, the children are accompanied by three fully-trained members of staff, and up to six adult volunteers.

The charity needs around 400 volunteers a year. To find out more, visit www.chicks.org.uk