As part of Nub News' partnership with the Co-op, we'll be sharing a series of features focussing on the great local causes currently being support by Co-op members in Bridport and Beaminster. 

This week we're focussing on The Shire @ Crockermoor, one of three local causes being support by Beaminster Co-op and its members.

The Shire @ Crockermoor, based near the Dorset and Somerset border in Corscombe, offers a unique day service for adults with learning disabilities. 

The quiet and idyllic 12-acre small-holding provides the perfect setting to allow its clients to explore and enjoy nature, learn new practical skills, interact with one another and work with the farm animals.

Inspired by her late sister Kathryn, Pip Clarke and her partner Matt set up The Shire as a not-for-profit two years ago, bringing a dream to reality in creating a care farm for members of the community with learning disabilities and special needs.

The farm welcomes adults of all ages, abilities and backgrounds for daily activities. They can try their hand at new practical skills, including cooking, building, welding, carpentry or learning to drive the farm vehicles, as well as crafts, games, music therapy and even karaoke discos!

Clients also enjoy the therapeutic benefits of looking after the farm animals and can get up close with nature at the fully accessible small holding, with regular fishing and walks along the river and through the woodlands.

They can also relax and benefit from some quiet time in the farm's cosy wooden cabin. 

Group activities are structured, but those taking part can go at their own pace, with The Shire recognising each individual's needs, encouraging independence, teaching helpful life skills and also offering one-to-one sessions if preferred.

Pip said: "There is always lots of choice of what to do, there's something for everyone and we're like one big family."

Being selected as one of Beaminster Co-op's Local Causes will help The Shire to complete a new beach-style area for its clients to enjoy. 

While Dorset boasts a beautiful coastline, large crowds and inaccessibility can made the beach a stressful day out for many with learning or physical disabilities, but The Shire hopes to give their clients a relaxing beach experience in the safe, familiar and accessible environs of the farm. 

A sand area complete with a boat structure will be created on the banks of the river. The area will be named Kathryn's Corner, after Pip's sister, and will also include a memory garden where everyone can leave tributes and reflect about their own loved ones. 

The Shire is always looking for more volunteers and is also keen to build closer links with the local community, Special Educational Needs schools and organisations. 

They are planning to open the farm for a family fun dog and pet show with a barbecue, stalls and other activities later this spring, with full details to be announced soon. 

For more information visit https://theshireatcrockermoor.co.uk/

When Cop-op Members buy selected Co-op products and services, 2p for every £1 goes into their Co-op Membership account, and the same amount is given to support community organisations and local causes, such as The Shire.

For more details, visit https://www.coop.co.uk/membership

Beaminster Co-op's other current local causes are Beaminster Pre-School and Beaminster Cricket Club – look out for our future features!