A Shetland Pony has been stealing hearts across Norfolk and now he is bringing cheer to those who need it most during lockdown.
He may be small, but Jack Brock the chestnut miniature Shetland Pony has a lot of love to give, and on Friday he visited residents at Windmill House Care Home in Wymondham.
Jack belongs to Ali Stearn whose love of horses has seen her devote her time to raising funds for charities with the help of her own four-legged friend.
Mrs Stearn, from South Norfolk, had been planning to take Jack to visit care homes across Norfolk this month, but as the country has now entered a third national lockdown, the pair will be staying local.
Jack was able to make a visit to the care home, greeting residents’ outside of a glass door and he also took a little trip around Harts Farm Estate to bring smiles to peoples' faces and raise money for Dementia UK.
Mrs Stearn said: “It was wonderful and the residents were full of joy.
“They stroked the window where Jack stood outside and they enjoyed listening to him crunch his carrots. There were lots of giggles, laughter and waving, it was brilliant.
“Two residents came out in their masks and Jack wandered up to them and ate a carrot from their hands.
“Later families waved from the windows. For children who aren't at school, it really brightened their mornings too.”
Mrs Stearn and Jack are hoping the more cheer they spread, the more donations they will receive as fundraising for charities has slowed amid the pandemic.
She added: “Since the pandemic began, dementia cafes and support groups have all stopped.
“So, families who are living with people with dementia are at their wits end and they are on the helpline wanting a bit of support.
“So we trying to kill birds with one stone, cheer people up and raise money for Dementia UK.
“We are sticking to Wymondham as are trying not to travel too far but there are lots of housing estates we can visit.”
To donate visit Jack's justgiving page here, https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jackbrockpony.
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