Rescue pony Micky has found a new role in life - delivering library books in Hullavington.

Micky has stepped in to do the job during lockdown, but has proved such a hit, he may have a permanent role.

"He has quite a fan base in the village and I can’t ride from one end to the other without someone stopping us to make a fuss of him which he just laps up, he even slows down or stops altogether at certain houses where he knows people might come out to see him," said his new human, Abi Elliot-Williams.

"After his first full clip, he was strutting down the road like John Travolta as people cooed and swooned at his new sleek look. I think I might need to buy him a bigger head collar!"

Micky was initially rescued by horse welfare as a 2/3 yer old colt, having been found abandoned on a farm and living in poor conditions.

He was transferred to the Blue Cross shortly after, still fairly nervous of humans and in need of veterinary attention.

"We actually went to look at another pony but Micky came over to us and my non-horsey husband commented on his amazing moustache and that was it. He lives in my parents’ field in our village along with our little retired mare Brontë and Eric the goat."

Hullavington Book Group normally receives books from the library via the mobile service. "Until our village hall is allowed to re-open, meetings are on hold, but we are able to review our books through email and I deliver and collect in the village," said Mum Elizabeth.

Kathryn Arthur, senior library assistant at Malmesbury Library, said: “We have really enjoyed supporting Elizabeth and Hullavington Book Group since the first lockdown, whilst the mobile library has been unable to make most of its usual visits.

“We have loved hearing about the various animals that are involved in Elizabeth’s life. The photos of Micky really brightened our day!”