Raleigh Manor Care Home in Exmouth was full of winged wisdom when a group of owls from Hawkridge Birds of Prey Centre were brought along for a visit.

Residents were pleasantly surprised to see a parliament of owls taking over the main lounge on Wednesday, October 18.

General manager Gill Pratt said: “Our residents really enjoyed their unusual visitors.

"We knew that having Hawkridge Birds of Prey here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus. 

"We are always looking for new activities for the residents and today we have seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.”

Katy Smith, activities coordinator, said: “This visit has been an outstanding success. We had residents, friends, relatives and staff members all engaged and excited to be able to get up close and personal to these mystical creatures.”

Raleigh Manor care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, and provides residential care and dementia care for residents, including both respite care and long-term stays.