AN East Lancashire animal sanctuary is inviting people to spread some Christmas cheer this year by posting seasonal greetings on stable doors.

Staff at Only Foals and Horses Sanctuary, in Oswaldtwistle, are hoping to celebrate in style by decorating the stables with colourful Christmas cards.

Olive Lomas, sanctuary co-ordinator, said: "The animals usually get the odd card but we are hoping to get more this year and we are hoping that local children will get involved by making the cards themselves."

Dr Fredrick Toates, an expert in animal welfare who works for the Open University, said that sending Christmas cards can only be beneficial for their well-being. He said: "Animals do respond to changes in stimulation. Any variety introduced into their environment is a good thing. The attention it will bring will be beneficial to the animals' mood."

Only Foals and Horses are also inviting people to adopt an animal this Christmas. Adopting an animal costs £10 per year and sponsors receive a certificate of adoption, a colour photograph of the animal and the chance to visit the animal all year round.

Mrs Lomas also says that gifts of vegetables, fruit, polo mints, digestive biscuits and rabbit food will also be welcomed so the animals can still get treats at Christmas.

Anyone who would like to give an animal a happy Christmas or would like to know more about adopting from Only Foals and Horses, call Olive Lomas on 01254 235559.