A Westerham care home welcomed two unlikely visitors this week.

Scarlet the Goat and her daughter Spangles made friends with residents when they arrived as part of a farm visit.

They were just two of menagerie including pigs, sheep, rabbits and guinea pigs from Miller’s Ark, a ‘mobile farm’ which takes animals across the county.

Care home manager, Claire Davis, said: “Most of the animals were outside in their pens, but it got a bit chilly so we brought Scarlet and Spangles inside to meet the residents, and they were a big hit.”

The duo received cuddles throughout the afternoon and those living at the home were able to experience the textures and sizes – and smells - of the various different breeds.

Miss Davies added: "Studies of older people with animals have shown they can trigger therapeutic remembering, and improve motivation, self-esteem and cognitive function.

"Everybody loved having the animals to visit, and I think the animals enjoyed all the attention as well.

“Scarlet and her daughter were the stars of the show, and were enjoying themselves exploring and getting to know everyone."

Ami Collman, operations manager of Montreux Living, which runs Westerham care home, said: “We’re really grateful for all the time and expertise from Miller’s Ark staff – and the animals who came with them.

"We know how important it is to help our residents keep mentally and physically active and who could resist helping out with feeding and looking after a these visitors."