GREENOCK care home residents were all smiles as they snuggled up to therapy pony Huggy during a recent visit.

Merino Court's most popular guest trotted in for a return trip bringing big smiles and lots of love into the room.

Activities co-ordinator Marilyn Kane, who pulled the miniature Shetland pony visit together with colleague Liz Reid, said: "The residents just love Huggy coming to visit.

"All their faces just light up when he comes through the door. It helps them feel calm and relaxed."

Pony therapy at Merino Court Pony therapy at Merino Court (Image: George Munro)

Huggy's proud owner Caeleigh Kean, of Hugs of Argyll, uses the cute little pony to help people to replace stress and anxious with calm and peace.

The family-owned business specialises in personalised one-to-one and group therapy sessions with Huggy.

Merino Court residents with Huggy the miniature Shetland ponyMerino Court residents with Huggy the miniature Shetland pony (Image: George Munro) Every week they visit care homes, schools, hospitals and attend events to get the message across that equine therapy can make all the difference in the world.

The horse owners aim to raise awareness of mental wellbeing 'one hug at a time'.

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Pony therapy sessions are just one of the activities set up at Merino Court, with lots planned in the countdown to Christmas.

Recently both Marilyn and Liz came together with other care home activity co-ordinators in Inverclyde to organise a special festive trip to the Waterfront Cinema to watch Elf.

Marilyn added: "It was a brilliant day, we like to organise joint trips. The cinema is great and they make them feel so welcome."

The countdown to Christmas in Merino Court is now in full swing as they turn it into a winter wonderland in time for their festive fete and party.

Activity co-ordinator Marilyn said: "It is the best time of the year and we have so much planned."