A homelessness charity has taken over the management of Brooks Farm in Leyton.

For the next 20 years the YMCA will run and develop the attraction, working in partnership with schools and the wider community.

Previously, the farm was owned by the borough but after securing a £490,000 grant from the government’s Community Ownership and Management of Assets fund, the YMCA now holds the lease.

Forest YMCA chief executive officer, Timothy Pain, believes that the farm will give purpose and drive to many of the charity’s residents.

The farm in Skeltons Lane Park will be closed as of April 22 and will reopen to the public in time for the summer school holidays.