A SPECIAL visit from Shire horses raised the spirits of residents at a care home in Colchester.

Alderwood Care Home, which is in Essex Hall Road, introduced Cerys and Belle to residents last week.

It allowed many of the care home residents to relive some very happy memories from yesteryear, with Frances Bates, 79, having had a long association with horses throughout her life.

Mrs Bates started riding horses at the age of 12, and went on to own horses herself.

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Even now, she still enjoys talking to carers about the riding lessons she received as a child, and she was understandably thrilled to interact with the Shire horses in the care home garden.

She said: “I [used to volunteer] with Riding for the Disabled – I would lead the horses for people with learning difficulties and other disabilities.

“Horses are so therapeutic – they really help people, both physically and mentally.

“Seeing the horses here was wonderful and brings back memories.”

Alderwood Care Home’s manager Nikki Leaney, added: “I think everyone will be talking about their visit for a long time.”