Feeding the lambs proved a popular pastime for children from Chickerell Primary Academy as they took part in Dorchester Agricultural Society’s new Education Fund.

Youngsters from the Academy’s breakfast club visited Warren Hill Farm, Puddletown, to find out where their breakfast came from.

They watched a robotic milking system in operation, learnt about calf rearing and saw a variety of crops, learning how they are grown and what their uses are.

Nearly 30 children from year one to year six took part in the event, and are said to have had a fantastic time on the farm.

Louise Parker, a teaching assistant, said: "From feeding the lambs, to watching the cows being milked, it was a wonderful experience.

“Most importantly, they learned so much about what happens on a working farm.

The 1840 Education Fund was officially launched at Buckland Newton School last November.

It is focusses on encouraging among youngsters a better understanding of farming, horticulture, rural business and the countryside in Dorset.

Funding is available for grants covering capital projects and individual events, including travel costs.

Wakely Cox, Dorset County Show chairman, said: “I’d like to encourage schools from across the county to get in touch with us to see if we can get youngsters out on our Dorset farms to learn more about the huge benefits stemming from food and farming.”