A HORSE had a therapeutic influence on elderly residents at a Kidderminster care home.

Rupert the horse paid a visit to Hollyfields in Habberley Road on Monday and spent time roaming around the home's communal areas and bedrooms to surprise residents.

Hollyfields general manager Ruth Abbs said: "Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitor.

"We knew that having Rupert, who is a bit of a local celebrity, would be a bit of fun for all our residents.

"Residents and staff really fell in love with Rupert and cannot wait for his return later this year.

"We are always looking for new activities and ways to increase individual wellbeing and today we have seen the enjoyment and therapeutic influence Rupert the horse can have on people.”

Rupert's owner Elaine Whalley added: "I visited Hollyfields with Rupert for the first time and it was great to be able to visit the residents upstairs too due to the ramped access.

"We had a wonderful welcome on both floors, everyone was so relaxed it was like we had been there before.”