Shetland ponies are new friends for pupils at Baston House School (From News Shopper)

Shetland ponies are new friends for pupils at Baston House School

10:38am Sunday 23rd September 2012 in Bromley By Robert Fisk

PUPILS returning to their school in Hayes this term were pleased to learn they have three new friends.

Teeny, Tiny and Trouble are now permanent fixtures at Baston House School, Baston Road, after being brought in over the summer.

It is hoped the Shetland ponies will enhance the therapeutic environment at the school, which caters for autistic children aged from five to 16.

Friends of Baston House chairwoman Sally Pettitt said: “These ponies offer the children the chance to express themselves and they are very accepting.

“We also hope to be able to offer the chance for some pupils to study extra vocational courses in equine care and animal husbandry.”

Money for the project came from a grant from Co-Op South East with the additional funds required raised by the Friends of Baston House School.

The ponies were donated by Rebecca Gowing, the owner of a stables in Downe.