BUSINESSES in Wheddon Cross have stepped in to save a vital service for local families and youngsters.

When Lottery funding for West Somerset play and learning charity CLOWNS came to an end earlier this year, it looked as though it was the end of the road for the popular physical family fun sessions it ran for the Cutcombe Toddler Group.

But the group decided to contact local businesses in the area to see if they could help.

And with just over £1,000 secured in donations, the monthly sessions will now continue to run until the end of March next year.

Local mum and toddler group helper Sarah Atkins said: "Many of the parents, carers and childminders who bring their children along to physical family fun do so not only to engage in fun, active and structured exercise, but also to spend time with other adults as it is often very isolating and lonely bringing up children on Exmoor.

"The CLOWNS staff regularly pass on information regarding other services and assist us with any concerns or issues we may have.

"We were fearful that when staff left, a wealth of knowledge, expertise and compassion would be lost forever."

The donations came from Richard and Caroline Webber of Shearwell Data Ltd, Anthony and Elaine Gardner from The Garage, Wheddon Cross, Kathryn and John Tucker from Exford, Lyn and Robert Arkell, Stephen Waley-Cohen, Sally Parish, Phoenix Cards and Charlotte Webber of Arthur and Isla Clothing, along with one anonymous donation.

CLOWNS co-ordinator Kathy Morton said she wanted to thank everyone for their hard work and support, which would allow the sessions to continue until the end of March.