Martin Clunes visit Weldmar Hospicecare in Dorchester

Yesterday, the Doc Martin star arranged a special treat for patients at Weldmar Hospicecare's inpatient unit in Dorchester in a bid to boost everyone's mood.

Joined by his horse Bruce and his dog Bob Jackson, Mr Clunes went round meeting patients living in the hospice as well as those attending day services, introducing them to his pets and chatting to them.

The actor has long been a supporter of the charity, which provides specialist end of life care to people living in Dorset, and is a regular guest at Weldmar's annual summer fete fundraiser, which was unfortunately cancelled for the second consecutive year in the summer due to the pandemic.

The star also recently auctioned off three walk on parts in his upcoming series of Doc Martin, raising a huge £7,050.50 for the charity.

Mr Clunes said: "What I like about Weldmar is their work and the people, and it's not harm for me to do something like this and I knew people would like to see Brucie. Animals cheer people up."

Martin Clunes visit Weldmar Hospicecare in Dorchester Picture: Weldmar

Day services patient Corinne very nearly missed out on meeting the star as she was feeling under the weather, but was thrilled to have attended the day service and had the opportunity to meet the celebrity and his pets.

She said: "I nearly didn't come today because I wasn't feeling well, but I'm so glad I've come because it has really pushed my day up."

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Day services lead at Weldmar Jenny Wood said: "It's quite a sight to have Bruce out on the lawn. It's so lovely to give people these experiences that are so unusual and they can do and tell their families all about it."

Martin Clunes visit Weldmar Hospicecare in Dorchester Picture: Weldmar

Jenny added: "We're really grateful to Martin for bringing him along."

Mr Clunes and his wife have lived near Beaminster for the past two decades. The couple bought their own farm in 2007, which is home to many animals including horses, Shetland ponies, dogs, Dexter cattle, sheep and hens.

For more information about Weldmar Hospicecare, visit www.weld-hospice.org.uk