Pony, Holly, celebrates her 28th birthday in style

Shetland pony, Holly, was treated to a very mare-y celebration in aid of her 28th birthday!

As one of the oldest animals living at the Park, Holly was gifted a special pink feeder and a birthday cake complete with 28 carrot 'candles'. 

Celebrating in 'stile'

Holly's cake comprised of a maize base and a special oat and grass pellet frosting, made lovingly by her keepers. She was presented with her cake by 11-year-old Holly Mullin and joined by all her keepers for the 'mane' event - a rousing rendition of 'Happy Birthday'!

Pony Holly shares her enclosure with her 'neigh'bours Choco and Tasha, two Abyssinian donkeys, both of whom also joined in on the fun and did what all good friends do... helped with the cake eating! 

Cheryl Midgley, Animal Encounters keeper, said: "We have really enjoyed celebrating Holly's birthday today. She is definitely one of the favourite animals in this section and she is also the oldest animal living in the Foot Safari, so we all made her a special cake and got her a fun new feeder for her to enjoy. 

"It definitely seemed like she appreciated it!"

After all that excitement on her big day, we're sure Holly was ready to 'hit the hay' by the end of it...