ORGANISERS battled to keep up with demand for cold drinks and ice cream as sweltering weather brought in the crowds at a farm charity open day.

Ferrets raced through tunnels, steam engines rolled and tractors transported families on rural rides in the Mile Oak Farm charity open day, organised by farmer Dave Cross and his wife Julia.

Around 1,000 people attended the opening day on Tuesday and Mr Cross was thrilled with the turnout.

He said: “I’m delighted, we’ve had so much support and I would like to thank everyone who participated, I hope they all had a good day out.”

The event raised £1,600 for charities including Martlets Hospice, Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice and Cancer Research.

Gran Stead’s Ginger Company raised £150 for Hillside Special School in Portslade.

Mile Oak Farm is located on Mile Oak Road in Portslade.