Surprise for Downham Market schoolchildren on World Snake Day

The activities team at Downham Grange Nursing Home, in Clackclose Road, Downham Market, organised a treat for residents and local children to celebrate World Snake Day.

The Mini Monsters roadshow brought along a fascinating array of exotic animals, including a Chilean rose tarantula, a giant African land snail, a bearded dragon and a giant millipede as well as Ghostie, an 11 year old corn snake.

Year 2 schoolchildren from Nelson Academy in Downham Market were excited to be offered a close-up encounter with the animals and were enthralled by handler Ed McKay’s fascinating facts about them  - however, it was 23 month old Willow Rayner who amazed everyone with her confidence and eagerness to hold Mildred the Millipede, her 252 legs not putting her off.

Care home residents also challenged themselves to hold the giant African land snail and millipede.

“Well that’s not something I have ever done before,” said resident Pam Elliot whilse Rosalind Burroughs described the millipede’s legs as feeling “like a hairbrush”.

The intergenerational day was arranged by  activities coordinator Bruna Morais and Regional Activities Support Marcia Hughes.

“The relationships between residents and children are so special, said Marcia. “We are creating memories through experiences like this which we can all learn from - though I’m not sure about the worms and the slime!”