Monkeying around at care home

Residents at a Spalding care home saw a visit from monkeys and penguins recently.
Those at Southfield House were visited by members of the Heythrop Zoological Gardens.
They included squirrel monkeys Sharkey and Catniss and penguins Pringle and Widget.
A spokesman for home operators St John Care Trust said: “Residents were thrilled to meet the animals up close, enjoy hands-on interactions, and listen to fascinating insights shared by their expert handlers.
“There was plenty of laughter throughout the day, especially when a cheeky monkey decided to perch on one resident’s head – a moment that brought smiles to everyone.”
Lucy Thorpe, activities coordinator at Southfield House, said: “We are always looking for unique and engaging experiences for our residents, and this visit was truly unforgettable.
“One of our much-loved residents, Jean Rowley (85) has a particular fondness for animals – especially monkeys and penguins.
“Seeing the joy on everyone’s faces as they interacted with the animals was incredibly special and a wonderful reminder of the positive impact such activities can have on wellbeing.”
A representative from Heythrop Zoo in Oxfordshire said: “These animals are not only comfortable and familiar with travelling, but we believe they show positive behaviour signs when interacting with a variety of people.
“Although they spend the majority of their time in the company of their own species, allowing them to exhibit normal behaviours including regular breeding and access to their surroundings all day long, they are used to and therefore not stressed by the presence of human beings.”