Bolton Hospice was filled with joy and the sound of clip-clopping hooves earlier this week as the team welcomed a very special visit from Simply Shetlands.

Patients, family members, staff, and volunteers were treated to a morning of "equine therapy" courtesy of Snowy and Mini, two miniature Shetland therapy ponies. The visit provided a welcome distraction and a boost to wellbeing, allowing those staying at the hospice a chance to pet, groom, and bond with the animals.

The visit was more than just a one-off event; it marked a growing bond between the hospice and Simply Shetlands owners, Rebecca and Tracey. After their initial visit to the hospice with ponies Tinkerbelle and Tallulah, the duo felt inspired by the hospice’s vital services.

Inspired by the compassionate care they witnessed and the overwhelming reaction from patients, the pair decided to go the extra mile - literally. Rebecca and Tracey are set to trade the stables for running shoes as they prepare to take on the upcoming Manchester 10K to raise vital funds for the charity.

The funds raised by Simply Shetlands will go directly toward patient care, ensuring that families continue to receive specialist medical and emotional support during their most difficult times.

Angela Griffiths, Fundraising Manager at Bolton Hospice, said: "Therapy animals like Snowy and Mini bring an incredible sense of peace and a 'slice of home' to our patients. We are so grateful to Rebecca and Tracey, not just for the smiles they bring with their ponies, but for their incredible dedication to fundraising for us. We’ll be cheering them on every step of the way in Manchester!"

To support Rebecca and Tracey’s fundraising efforts, please visit their JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/team/simplyshetlands