A much-loved dog who has helped cheer up hospital patients is looking forward to his retirement.

Yorick the Lurcher started working with the Maidstone Hospital chaplaincy team in 2012 when his owner Paul Ledger, started volunteering there and has since become a firm favourite with everyone there.

The duo started out attending chapel services and spent time in the main reception area but from early 2013 began visiting patients on wards.

Yorick has brought joy to many patients

Over the years they have also given up their Christmas Day afternoons to help those unable to be with their families.

Mr Ledger, of Lawrence Close, Maidstone, has difficulty hearing and was given Yorick as an assistance dog to help him with daily tasks.

He said: “Yorick has enjoyed his time with the hospital and the 'paws-itive' impact he has had on patients has been amazing. I think the best way to describe him is 'the spirit lifter'.”

Staff held a presentation ceremony at the hospital's Multi Faith Centre this week and presented the dog with a much-deserved certificate and his favourite treats - Bonio biscuits.

Reverend Nicola Mitra, chaplain at the centre, said: “Stroking Yorick can be a great way to get someone talking.

"Even if someone doesn’t want to talk it can be profoundly helpful just to have a reassuring presence, especially if they’re feeling lonely or they don't have many or any visitors.

“Their visits to the wards really resonated with people.

"They broke down age barriers, abilities, and communication problems and reminded people they are more than just patients with troubling illnesses.

Chief nurse Claire O'Brien said: “It is clear Yorick has brought a lot of happiness to people’s lives during some very tough, sad and challenging times.

“I, along with everyone else at Maidstone Hospital, wish Yorick a very happy and long retirement.”

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone