It’s ‘True’ – Dinky Ponies Bring Pop Royalty To Oxford Care Home!
THRILLED care home residents got an extra special surprise when miniature pony Poppy brought along a VIP guest for her latest visit – pop legend Martin Kemp.
The Spandau Ballet superstar couldn’t resist the chance to swing by Chawley Grove Care Home in Cumnor to meet residents after becoming a fan of Poppy via Instagram.
Residents and staff couldn’t believe their eyes when Martin and his wife Shirlie, who found fame with partner Pepsi as Wham’s backing singers, turned up to say hello.
But Martin said he was the one who was wowed after meeting Poppy and starstruck residents, plus getting a tour of the luxury care home.
Martin said: “The home is lovely and has a great vibe. I love the fact you have a bar and a cinema, it’s amazing!”
Having followed Poppy’s adventures via Dinky Ponies’ social media accounts, Martin and Shirlie spoke of how amazed they were that residents get to enjoy such wonderful experiences in the comfort of their care home.
Shirlie added: “I have really enjoyed spending time with your residents, and having a pony in the home for everyone to meet is incredible.”
According to Chawley Grove’s Wellbeing Coach, Danni Hudson, the fantastic visit left everyone on a high.
Danni said: “We were absolutely thrilled to welcome Martin and Shirlie to Chawley Grove. It was incredibly special to have them here whilst Poppy was spending time with residents so they could see just how much everyone benefits when Sarah brings her in.
“We were very proud to show off our lovely care home – and it was fantastic that Martin and Shirlie were so impressed by everything we have to offer. It meant the world for our residents to chat with them and for them to see that to us, our residents are VIPs too!”
This is not the first time that a Dinky Ponies visit at Chawley Grove has made waves. Owner Sarah Woodland’s Instagram video of Poppy meeting resident Connie in 2023 went viral worldwide and resulted in her being interviewed on American television.
