FAMILIES were able to enjoy the “Lamb National”, “chicken runs” and “hillybilly goat racing” at the launch of an animal-themed event.

Barleylands Farm Park, in Billericay, opened its doors on Saturday and Sunday for Animal Antics, which gave visitors the chance to get up close and personal with birds and reptiles.

Dave Finkle, general manager at the farm, says he was delighted with the response.

He said: “It went really well, we are very pleased with how the support we got from everybody.

“The idea behind the event was to have as much going on as possible for the all ages. The Lamb National is great fun, as they have hurdles to jump as with the horse racing, and they’re also painted different colours.

“It’s the fourth time we have done this, and we added the chicken run and the goat race which went down very well.”