Woolly alpacas popped into a children’s nursery in Harold Wood to spend some time with toddlers.

Two alpacas called Artie and Truffle caused a bit of a stir at the Hunnypot Corner Day Nursery.  

“The children’s excitement was amazing,” nursery owner Becky Leaney said. “We even had lots of interest from neighbours and passers-by.

“It’s not every day you see an alpaca walking down the road in Harold Wood."

The toddlers petted and fed carrots to the sociable animals.

“Animals are really good for mental wellbeing,” Becky added. “It is definitely something we would consider again as it was a huge success.”

The alpacas from a Berkshire farm near Reading were the highlight of the nursery’s early years wellbeing week, which also included relaxation activities and treat baskets.

Alpacas are native to South America and traditionally graze in the Andes and are bred in herds for their wool.