Folly Farm, one of Wales' premier family attractions, has a new bundle of joy.
Cindy, one of the many horsey friends at Folly Farm gave birth to a very healthy filly foal on Friday, May 18. The popular falabella, who is skewbald (brown and white) in colour gave guests and Folly farmers a shock when she gave birth in the Jolly Barn a week early.
Marie O'Sullivan PR and marketing co-ordinator said: "It was about 11.55 am and I was just about to start the horse show when there was a lot of noise and people were gathering around Cindy's pen. It wasn't until I got close to the pen that I realised what was happening."
Due to the birth being premature, some lucky guests were actually able to witness the new arrival's entry into the world.
Jane Hill, who works with the animals added: "It's a lovely experience for our guests, you don't get that sort of opportunity every day and they were very lucky because most horses give birth during the night."
Alongside the guests, one of the Folly Farmers also got his first experience of birth.
Paul Bacon was the first on the scene, and he said: "It was an awe inspiring demonstration of mother nature at its best."
The little one settled in very well over her first weekend, and Cindy enjoyed showing off her new daughter.
All that was left to do was give her a name. A competition ran over two days, that allowed guests to have a go at naming the foal. There were all sorts of names entered, but the overall winner came from Daniel Randall who lives in West Sussex. His suggestion was Popcorn, all the Folly Farmers liked that one, so well done to Daniel.
If you want to visit Cindy, Popcorn and all the other animal friends including rheas and wallabies, Folly Farm is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5.30 pm. Look out for their brochure or call for more information on (01834) 812731. Why not check out their website http://www.folly-farm.co.uk">www.folly-farm.co.uk