STAFF at an outdoor learning centre which had thousands of pounds worth of equipment stolen have spoken of their gratitude to fundraisers who have enabled them to continue holding family events.

Chainsaws, strimmers, maintenance tools and diesel were among the items taken during a burglary at the Hill End Centre near Farmoor in August.

Through the work of the Friends of Hill End, £5,000 has been raised to order replacements.

A combination of generous donations, a grant from the Ffennell Trust and use of some reserve funds have made it possible to continue running events for children and adults to experience the great outdoors.

Friends of Hill End chairwoman Lesley Williams said: “In spite of the recent burglary, Friends of Hill End are pleased to continue offering family events to bring people to the centre.

“We want to thank those who have donated towards replacement equipment which we have now ordered.”

The group paid for new storage for the equipment from reserve funds and called for people to keep up their generosity to cover the cost.

Mrs Williams thanked the Oxford Mail and said that several people had come forward following the media coverage.

The county council-owned centre, off Eynsham Road, is used by many schools for outdoor lessons about nature.

Adult courses are also held at the 65-acre site as well as first aid courses and family days.

On Saturday the centre – which has been maintained in the meantime through loaned replacement equipment – held a family bushcraft day. Families could learn how to set up campfires and use them to make bread.

Alex Newbury, 10, said: “I think it’s really good and I want to go to the next one. I think the way you make bread is the best bit.”

Joseph O’Meara, nine, said: “I come to these a lot. I really like it and hopefully lots of other people can enjoy them as well.”

The centre was set up by mining entrepreneur and philanthropist Raymond Ffennell in the 1930s for local schools to use.

The Ffennell Trust was set up following his death in 1959 to ensure the centre continued to offer open air education, recreation, social and physical training.

To donate to the centre email friendsofhillend@gmail.com.