Unusual visitors make poorly children smile

Poorly children were given a boost when some friendly animals paid a visit to them in hospital.

Michael Tyler from Creepy Claws, based at Teynham, near Faversham, bought some of his collection of more than 300 animals to visit Padua ward at the William Harvey Hospital, thanks to funding from East Kent Hospitals Charity.

Youngsters were able to meet Simon the royal python, Spud the werewolf guinea pig, Poppy the tarantula and Dusty the gecko, as well as an albino hedgehog, millipedes, and a scorpion.

The visit was arranged by the play specialists, and play leader Lorraine Cassar said it was a fantastic opportunity to bring smiles to children on the ward.

She said: “We had a fantastic time meeting all the animals – the snake proved particularly popular, and the guinea pig was great for those of us who wanted something to cuddle.

“Children can find being in hospital really boring so it’s wonderful to be able to give them this experience and we’re very grateful to East Kent Hospitals Charity for making it possible.”

Michael and the team regularly visit schools and events, but Wednesday’s visit was their first to a hospital.

He said: “It was lovely to be able to help make the children smile, and to teach them a bit about the different animals and how to look after them at the same time.

“Some of the children were a bit apprehensive at first but we have a range of animals so there’s always something for everyone, even if you’re not a fan of spiders and snakes!”

For more information on Creepy Claws visit https://www.creepyclaws.org/ and for more information on East Kent Hospitals Charity and how you can support them to fund more projects and experiences for patients and staff, visit https://www.ekhcharity.org.uk/