A much-loved Devon therapy pony, whose calming presence has brought comfort to people facing some of life’s hardest moments, has received international recognition for his work.

Patrick, the eight-year-old Shetland pony known to fans around the world, was awarded his Honourable Global Medal for the 2025 Animal Heroes Hall of Fame awards, in October.

The award was presented by Torbay’s Civic Mayor, Hazel Foster, and her husband, Kevin Foster, recognising Patrick’s contribution to his community through his work supporting people’s mental health and wellbeing.

The annual international celebration, now in its fifth year, honours animals whose extraordinary contributions have made a difference to people and communities around the world.

Patrick’s handler, Kirk, said he and his wife Hannah were “absolutely amazed and so proud” of what their pony had achieved.

“He may just be one small pony, but he has touched so many people,” Kirk said.

Patrick has worked as a therapy pony for about four years, visiting hospitals and supporting people through difficult periods in their lives.

His online presence has also attracted a devoted international following, with messages of gratitude arriving from people who say simply seeing him has helped them.

“Patrick gets emails and handwritten letters telling him how just seeing him online has helped them; they’re really lovely to read,” Kirk said.

He said the award’s founder had contacted him to explain Patrick had been nominated, leaving the family “over the moon”.

The 2025 awards celebrated animals from across the globe, with Patrick sharing the spotlight with 14 other animal heroes recognised for their service and impact.

The honour was particularly meaningful to Kirk because it recognised the contribution animals make beyond their roles as working animals.

“Animals are often overlooked, so it’s nice to have something to show for their efforts,” he said.

Kirk believes Patrick’s appeal comes from a combination of training, gentleness and an unmistakable personality.

“We knew Patrick was a bit special from the moment he stepped off the horse box; there was something different about him,” he said.

“Most horses are a bit shy about coming off, but not him – he made himself right at home.”

While Patrick has been trained for his therapy work, Kirk said his character was what set him apart.

“He can switch from being a calm, loving companion to a cheeky Shetland pony keen to run around and play,” Kirk said.

“He’s also very gentle and calming to be around. He has given relief, hope and happiness to so many people at their time of most need.”

Patrick’s popularity has grown to the point that people travel from around the world to walk with him, while passing motorists regularly wind down their windows to wave and say hello.

The pony has even earned another civic title, serving as Mayor of Cockington, where his standing as a local favourite is well established.

Kirk said arranging hospital visits could involve considerable paperwork and navigating different requirements, but the family persevered because of the difference Patrick could make.

The international award, he added, was recognition not just of Patrick but of the value animals bring to people’s lives.

As for celebrating his success, Patrick gave the Guinness a miss - this time - in favour of a run around the paddock and plenty of cuddles with his family.

Well done, Patrick.