THIS week I visited a new alpaca business offering people the opportunity to walk with the animals. 

As previously reported, Bridge End Alpacas is based in Broad Road, Monxton, and is currently home to 12 alpacas, as well as a number of other farmyard animals.

Mike Tennick, 42, who lives in Tidworth, and purchased the land a number of years ago, although the purchase of several alpacas is a recent development.

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In January 2023, Mike decided to buy several alpacas, including three pregnant females, with the idea of setting up regular events with the animals to give the people of Test Valley and the surrounding area the opportunity for individual, close and relaxing experience with the animals.

Mike utilised family and friends in April and May 2023 for alpaca walks and feeding sessions, before June 2023 saw the alpacas make the two-and-a-half-mile journey to the Hawk Inn, which was well received.

Mike was in contact with Test Valley Borough Council, who suggested Bridge End Alpacas look into providing therapy sessions and mobility walks for people with disabilities.

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Mike took the advice on board once Bridge End Alpacas received its licence in February 2024, and there's been no looking back ever since.

Since February business has been booming, with therapy sessions, pub walks, mobility walks, animal feeding and other animal-related activities all underway on a daily basis, for varying but affordable cost.

The Advertiser visited Mike and the alpacas on Wednesday, March 20 to hear all about the business, animals and what to expect from visiting the animal farm.

Use the photo gallery above to see some of the best photos from the visit.