Last week, Alan Greenhalgh, a Falconer and Momentum Children's Charity volunteer, took four of his beautiful owls to Kingston Hospital where they met children and their families for a special Halloween treat.

 Greenhalgh spent around two hours telling children all about the owls, encouraging them to stroke and hold the birds, and ask any questions they might have.

Elmo, a Great Grey owl, Gizmo, a Scops owl, Molly a Siberian Eagle-owl, and Mo (named after Momentum) a Tawny owl, all made the magical journey to the hospital for the special visit.  

Momentum's mascot is an owl – the birds symbolise wisdom, protection, and strength - qualities the charity hopes it brings to the families they support.  

Approximately 30 children spent time with the owls in the garden of the Paediatric department, and it was a welcome break from being on the ward.

Three-year-old Jesse, from Richmond, is currently receiving treatment for B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at Kingston Hospital.

Talking about the owl visit, Jesse's mum, Polly said: "Jesse and his brothers loved meeting the owls in hospital last week.

"It was also really helpful for Jesse to have an experience at hospital which was entirely positive. No blood tests, medication or investigations - just something fun, in a safe environment for him."

Greenalgh, who has been volunteering with Momentum for nine years, said: "It is lovely to see the children smiling and enjoying the owls – if it helps by bringing them a bit of joy during a very difficult time, what more could I ask for? I have been bringing the owls to Kingston Hospital for years, as well as visiting children in their homes, and I will continue for as long as I can. Next year we will be flying into St. Peter's Hospital too."

 Find out more about Momentum Children's Charity here.