Ponies participating in politics?
Patrick the Pony has won the hearts of the people and is now the new “mayor” of Cockington, a village in England. This was an opportunity he couldn’t say neigh to.
Patrick has quite the group of followers as the Shetland pony can always be found in the town’s local pub, The Drum, where his favorite drink is a pint of Guinness.
The pony is such a celebrity that he has his own special drinking corner that is reserved especially for him.
Patrick’s original career began as a therapy pony when his owner, Kirk Petrakis, took him to The Drum to help locals who were mentally struggling during the pandemic.
Patrick still spends time at hospitals, mental health wards and specialized schools.
According to The Mirror, hundreds of people have signed a petition asking for the pony to be the next mayor after their former mayor, Don Mills, passed away in 2019.
For now, Patrick is the “unofficial mayor” as signers of the petition continue to grow.
In preparation Petrakis and his wife Hannah, have given Patrick his own office complete with lights and his own Purple Poppy emblem, which is a symbol for war horse memorials and animal charities to pay homage to his heritage.
Many local politicians have participated in networking events with Patrick in an attempt to shake hands — and hooves.
Member of Parliament Kevin Foster and local councilor Andrew Barrand specifically showed up to attend his ceremony in becoming unofficial mayor.
Petrakis was clearly pleased with Patrick’s accomplishments telling The Mirror, “We think Patrick The Pony has made history by becoming the first pony Mayor in the UK.”
Although, no acceptance speech was given because Patrick’s voice was a little horse.