Cuddle Bunnies coffee morning

Grey and white with melting dark eyes, Jess is a 10 month old cross Lionhead who sums up what the group is all about - spreading hugs and cuddles.

There were other rabbits to be seen at the event which was organised by Sally Wickenden and Margaret Worth.

Sally said: "We help people, and we also teach a lot of people how to look after rabbits. It is very rewarding.

"Cuddle Bunnies goes round nursing and residential homes, and takes rabbits to people who have no pets, and gives them cuddles. We also visit rehabilitation centres, and give talks to groups like the brownies, cubs, guides and scouts.

"People absolutely love it - some of our regulars in the homes really look forward to seeing the rabbits and seeing their faces.

"They all love it...the more cuddles the better."

Sally herself is more involved with talks to groups of youngsters and WI meetings, while Margaret takes the rabbits to nursing homes with member Doreen Hammond.

The coffee morning in Station Road included sale of bric-a-brac, games, competitions, raffle, tombola and sale of Cuddle Bunnies merchandise, as well as a personal appearance by Father Christmas.

Jess was there to meet members of the public, as her owner Brenda Deeprose commented: "She goes out to nearly all the events we do, and visits - she loves all the attention. She almost jumps up onto their laps."

The event was opened by Lord Brett McLean who has pledged to fundraise for the group and hopes to help purchase a vehicle to make Cuddle Bunnies transportation easier.