ELVES and other unusual creatures gave care home residents a festive treat.

St George’s Hall care home in Middleton St George was livened up with a visit from a range of cuddly and exotic animals today (Friday, December 19).

The Zoolab organisation descended on the home with a host of animals, including a tarantula, rabbit, tortoise and fancy rat.

Residents were invited to handle the cute critters as part of an animal therapy session organised by the home’s activities co-ordinator Jackie Malton.

Office manager Debbie Allison said: “Everyone really enjoyed it, especially one gentleman who has been feeling a bit down recently – he loved it and it was a boost for him.

“The animals are quite therapeutic for elderly people and everybody likes it.

“It’s nice for them especially at this time of year when a lot of people get a bit down.

“It gives them a little boost and we’re looking forward to inviting them back again next year.”

Zoolab carries out animal handling workshops across the UK and offer therapeutic sessions in a bid to reduce stress and improve well-being.