CARE home residents enjoyed a close encounter with a rather different visitor than usual.

Miniature pony Mr P paid a call on the Leeming Garth Care Home in Leeming Bar – run by care company HC-One to meet residents, relatives and staff.

Mr P visited the home along with his handlers from Darlington-based KL Pony Therapy and won the hearts of all he met.

“His gentle and friendly temperament was a hit with the residents’ who gave lots of love and attention to him,” said a spokesman for the home.

“He was small enough to visit the bedrooms so everyone had a chance to meet him.

“It was so wonderful to see the delight on our residents’ faces when they met Mr P, a truly magical moment for each of them.”