An encounter with a Siberian Eagle Owl who was making a special visit to St Benedict's Nursing Home in Glastonbury has brought about an unexpected change of heart from one of the residents who live there.

Activities team member Kevin Clarke said: "We are always very respectful of our residents likes and dislikes, so when resident Sheila Church told us at a previous visit that she was afraid of birds and didn't want any near her, we were not expecting her to take part in the 'meet the owls' sessions we had arranged with Somerset owlery Owl Obsession.

"But we made a point of telling Sheila when the birds would be visiting, and described the owls who were coming, and in the end her curiosity got the better of her and she asked to see them.

"The gentle and professional approach of handler Anna Reed worked wonders, and with me backing Sheila up she ended up gently stroking all three of the owls.

"In fact she loved it all so much and felt so safe she actually put the handler's glove on and held them.

"Then she asked us to take pictures as she said her husband would not believe it.

"Now when Anna brings her owls in Sheila is always front and centre at every visit and so keen to see and stroke them. It's really lovely."

Owl Obsession is based in Yeovil and offers tailored experiences, education and talks, as well the opportunity to meet and get close up with our wonderful and much-loved birds.

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The birds' visit is part of a full and varied programme of activities organised for residents of St Benedict's Nursing Home, which is run by White Care Group. The family-run care provider also runs St Cecilia in Shepton Mallet and The Rectory in Taunton.

Photo: Sheila Church with Perdy, a Siberian Eagle owl