PATIENTS and staff in Minehead Hospital had probably their most unusual ever visitor this week.

Charlie the donkey made a surprise visit to brighten up the patients’ stay and also entertain the hospital’s staff.

He came from 2nd Chance Petting Farm, in Frome, which rescues and rehabilitates animals and then takes them out to share with people in their communities.

Charlie makes regular visits to hospitals and care homes to help people with their healing process and complement the wellbeing of patients and staff by providing a chance to pet, talk, and feed the donkey with carrots and apples – which, apparently, are his favourite.

The successful visit by Charlie was organised by the hospital’s matron, Norma Coombes.