Blondie the Shetland pony delights care home residents

Blondie the Shetland pony trotted into a Teesside care home to meet elderly residents.

The tiny, all white pony paid a visit to those living at Ingleby Care Home, on Lamb Lane, Ingleby Barwick.

The delighted residents greeted Blondie with smiles and even a song – which almost wooed the pony to sleep.

Resident Ivy Thomas began singing as soon as she approached, when Blondie rested her head on Ivy’s knee and closed her eyes.

Fellow resident John Cliff Magson, who is profoundly deaf and chooses not to participate in many activities, was overcome with the visit.

He said: “It was the best thing I’ve ever seen. It brightened up my day. It brightened up my whole week.”

Resident Norman Curry said: “I didn’t ever expect to see a horse walking into my room.”

Kirsty Walsh, activities coordinator at Ingleby Care Home, said: “It was great to have Blondie in the home – especially as we had to delay the visit from earlier in the year due to heavy snowfall.

“It warmed my heart to see how the residents responded. Especially Cliff and Ivy.

“We want to say a big thank you to K&L Ponies for bringing Blondie to the home and we look forward to seeing her again.”

Ingleby Care Home and Blondie is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net