Patients at a Kent hospital were delighted to be visited by an adorable therapy pony.

Four-year-old miniature Shetland pony George greeted patients and staff at the frailty unit at Sheppey Community Hospital in Minster on Monday.

The visit was arranged by Faversham-based organisation George And Friends Animal Therapies and is part of an ongoing drive to use animal therapy to boost patient recovery and experience.

Patient Linda Shardow said: “I think he is beautiful and absolutely perfect.

“I was quite shocked to see him at first but he was so gentle and it was really nice to stroke him. It makes a real change to your day.

“I've always had animals including cats, dogs and rabbits, and my nephew owns horses too.

“I think it is really important to have therapy animals in hospital, because they can go around and bring a smile to everyone on the ward.”

His visit comes after the Trust recently introduced regular sessions at the facility with therapy dogs Molly and Hunney.

George's owner Michelle Burney said: “George loves the care and attention he gets while spending time in hospital and he really enjoys being stroked and talked to by everyone.

“For most patients, it is something new and different. Therapy animals like George can really help to improve people's wellbeing and mental health.

“It was lovely to see the sheer joy on their faces when we walked in.”

Kelly Strudwick, nursing associate at the unit, added: “Spending time with George has helped to boost morale and spread cheer, showing the benefits of animal therapy.

‘’We are really proud of the innovative service that we provide at Sheppey, and it’s important that we help our patients have the best possible experience while they are with us, ensuring we look after both their physical and mental wellbeing.

‘’We thank our fantastic volunteers, and The Medway Hospital Charity, for their ongoing help and support with our efforts.’”