One of Dedham's most popular tourist attractions will not open to the public this summer.

A message to callers at the Dedham Valley Family Farm, known formerly as the Dedham Rare Breeds Farm, blames ill-health for the shock decision.

Peter Harris runs the farm with his wife Libby. The farm is home to dozens of British farmyard animals including pigs, calves, lambs, ducklings and ponies.

The message says: "Regrettably due to ill health the farm will not open to the public this year. May I thank you all for all the support you have given in the past."

The farm usually opens in the spring until about mid September. The Gazette was unable to contact Mr or Mrs Harris for further comment.

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