THREE Lancaster-based refugees took a trip to Bentham to relax and meditate with horses.

Meditate with Horses, at The Wenning, High Bentham, uses therapy animals to alleviate stress, trauma or anxiety in people.

Katherine Beaumont, of Meditate with Horses in High Bentham, said: “Horses are brilliant therapy animals. They mirror your emotions and being calm and still around them is a must in order to make a connection.

“The results of spending time with them in this way is a profound sense of well being and peace.

“We really enjoyed having the guys here for the day. They were so warm and open-hearted, despite what they have been through, they were so much fun. I’m delighted to have met them and the horses loved them too.”

She added: “I was especially touched by Abinet, who grew up in Ethiopia in the mountains with his grandfather who kept horses. The joy on his face was undeniable. This young man, who now has to live on £5 a day, spent some of his meagre allowance on a bunch of flowers to say thank you.”

Volunteers Silvia Peruzza and Sylvia Borovska from The Tara Centre, who donate their time to help refugees and organise therapy, drove the three men up to Bentham.

Silvia said: “We had an unforgettable day. We took Abinet, Ali and Kazzan to spend time with, connect and meditate with three beautiful horses.

“It has been a very special experience that will stay with me forever. The results were quite profound with the three young men.

“Katherine was very patient, explained everything clearly and was very hospitable.”

For more information, email Katherine Beaumont at katherinebeaumont76@gmail.com