A FAMILY is to create a farm designed around the needs of disabled children after being inspired by the plight of their daughter.

Nick and Nicola Laister believe Fairytale Farm will be the first family farm attraction tailored to children with sensory, learning and physical disabilities.

The couple will hold car boot sales to raise the last £100,000 needed to open the £300,000 attraction, near Chipping Norton. A further £150,000 is needed to maintain the farm.

The idea was inspired by their 12-year-old daughter Olivia, who has cerebral palsy.

Mr Laister said: “As parents of a child with severe disabilities, we have become only too aware over the past few years that there are very few rural facilities for disabled children and their families.

“As most parents of children with special needs know, much of the countryside – such as the rights of way network – is almost completely out of bounds.”

Mr Laister, 41, – also dad to Guy, 16, James, nine, and daughter Grace, five – added: “We are turning accessibility on its head.

“At Fairytale Farm, everything will be designed around children with special needs – but we can’t guarantee that everything will be accessible to those without disabilities.”

Planning permission for the activity farm, at Southcombe Farm, just outside Chipping Norton, was granted last year and work has started.

Mr Laister said: “We found an ideal site on the A44 just outside Chipping Norton, which is flat, has good road access and a range of outbuildings that can be converted.

“The attraction will involve a range of farm and domestic animals, particularly those that can be handled, as this is important for children with sensory disabilities.

“We also propose to install specialist play equipment, including swings that can take wheelchairs, and sensory trails where children see, touch, smell and hear various fun features.”

The project is being entirely funded by the Laisters.

He said: “Although we are not seeking financial donations, we are asking local businesses and attractions to consider donating items that we could recycle, anything from play equipment and catering equipment through to timber, building materials and exhibits for the attraction.”

Katie Turner, national campaigns officer at Leonard Cheshire Disability charity, welcomed the move.

She said: “It is really important that local services and attractions are the ones setting the standards, creating inclusive experiences and services that involve all members of the community.”

The farm, on the A44 London Road, is hosting the car boot sales every Saturday until October 16.

For more details call Julie Morgan on 07810 017437 or email info@fairytalefarm.co.uk