Pictures: All Kerry Roberts

THERE was mischief galore when farmyard animals paid a visit to a care home.

On Friday, October 25, residents at Bradshaw Manor in Rhyl were pleasantly surprised to see sheep roaming around their garden.

These were Ryeland sheep - a heavily woolled sheep, with much of the face and legs covered with fine fleece.

Residents were able to both feed and stroke the sheep.

Emma Crompton, activities co-ordinator, said: “Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitors. We knew that having the farm here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus.

Rhyl Journal:

Ryeland sheep - residents were able to both feed and stroke the sheep. Picture: Kerry Roberts

"The sheep were so well behaved and gentle with the residents. Animal therapy is so important, especially for those living with dementia or receiving palliative care. It gives the residents responsibility having to feed and care for the animals as well as comforting and taking those who require high dependency care our of reality and any worries even for a short time."

Residents commented on how long it had been since they had seen sheep in the fields, driving through the countrysides.

Rhyl Journal:

June Cooper makes a fuss of one of the Ryeland sheep. Picture: Kerry Roberts

Resident Del Rodwell said: "It is defiantly something I didn’t expect to see. Nothing Emma arranges for us surprises me anymore."

Freda Delves said: "I didn’t quite believe them when they told me we would be having the special visitors. The sheep were beautiful, a little wet and soggy mind, but still gorgeous."

Bradshaw Manor provides Nursing and Dementia Care for 65 residents from short to long term stays.

Emma added: “We are always looking for new activities for the residents and we have seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.”