ANIMAL loving primary school pupils were left overjoyed and with “smiles on their faces” after a travelling farm paid them a visit.

Last Thursday, animal experts and a myriad of curious creatures from the Ark Farm stopped off at the Mayflower Primary School, in Dovercourt, Harwich.

Staff at the educational institution decided to welcome the friendly furry community to combat the impact coronavirus has had on their ability to plan off-site trips.

The ecstatic young students, who could barely contain their excitement, petted everything from goats, ducks and chickens, to Labrador dogs and a donkey.

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Headteacher Mrs Elizabeth Bartholomew said: "It was such a delightful experience to provide our pupils in these challenging times and seeing the smiles on their faces was priceless.”

The mobile farm also gave the children – from all the school’s year groups - an opportunity to learn about their favourite animals and their differing personalities.

Mrs Karen Wright, deputy headteacher, has praised the Ark Farm professionals for giving the students a slice of animal-themed joy during these unprecedented times.

She said: "They were so well organised and catered brilliantly for all of our pupils.”