Python pays a visit to Caithness Sight Impairment Group
Members of Caithness Sight Impairment Group came face to face with a python and other exotic creatures when Annie Body brought some of her pets along to a meeting in Thurso.
The visit came about following an approach by the group's secretary, Jennifer Morrison. Members meet on the first Wednesday of each month from 2pm to 4pm in the hall of the United Reformed Church in Castle Street.
Annie, who runs a bakery business at Upper Gills, Canisbay, has a collection of more than 40 pets. She introduced members to a bull frog, a tortoise, a turtle, geckos and Freddy the African grey parrot as well as the ball python.
Annie was accompanied by her mum Lorna, who said later: “The group members were so enthusiastic and so responsive and asked loads of questions. It was a great experience for myself as well.
"I was able to answer some questions but Annie is the expert.
“She started off with just a few, and it has grown, but she is absolutely passionate about them all. She does an enormous amount of research.
“She never keeps anything venomous – you need a special licence for that.
"There was only one lady within the group that wasn't keen on the snake. She was fascinated by everything else so we just gave her a wide berth when it came to the snake!
"Annie not only explained what each amphibian or reptile was, their habitat, food and so on, but also described their size and colour in great detail for those with less sight."
Lorna added: "Annie is running her own bakery business and she is extremely busy, but Jennifer is a regular customer and asked if she could go along. Annie hasn't got time to do it on a regular basis – it was just a favour."
Jennifer said: “We were delighted to hear about Annie's interest in exotic animals, and to be able to see and touch some of them.
"We also treated ourselves to some of Annie’s delicious baking. A big thank-you to Annie and Lorna for the afternoon.”
Caithness Sight Impairment Group is a peer support organisation for people with any form of visual impairment. At their meetings, members receive advice and information on local services and guest speakers go along.
Carers, relatives and friends are also welcome to attend.
Information about the group is available from Hearing and Sight Care in Wick or Thurso (01955 606170 or 01847 895636).
