Visitors to the Old Railway Line Garden Centre in Three Cocks last week commented on how it was a “lovely surprise” to be welcomed by Pete the parrot, just weeks after the business announced the passing of Sammy, who had called the garden centre home for 15 years.
“We’re pleased to introduce a new feathered friend to the garden centre team… Meet Pete,” the Old Railway Line said in a post on Facebook last Thursday, January 22.
“Pete is a three-year-old cockatiel, and we’re very happy to have welcomed him to his new home here in our pet department.
“We know many of you will miss Sammy dearly, and we hope you’ll show Pete the same kindness and care as he settles into his new surroundings.
“He’s a friendly little guy, but please be patient while he gets used to meeting lots of new faces.”
In a statement the award-winning garden centre added: “We’re so excited to be re-homing Pete the cockatiel.
“Just like Sammy many years ago, Pete has come to us in need of a new home, and we’re delighted to welcome him into the Old Railway Line family.
“He has a wonderful personality and already loves meeting our visitors.”
Visitors to the centre had developed a fondness for Sammy, who would often greet them with wolf whistles, meows and barks over the last 15 years.
He had become a cherished part of any visit to the Old Railway Line, after he was taken in by the owners.
The garden centre announced that Sammy passed away earlier this month, prompting an outpouring of tributes on social media.
Hundreds of comments were left, with Sammy described as a “celebrity”.
Although Sammy is gone, it’s clear Pete the parrot is already winging his way into people’s hearts too.
Pauline Lawrence said: “We weren’t going to go into that area on our next visit because it would be so sad not seeing Sammy there. Looking forward to meeting Pete.”
Kerryn Brooker Watson added: “Welcome Pete. it would’ve been my dad’s birthday today and his name was Pete, so it was nice to see this pop up.”
Hilary Mackintosh, who visited last week, said: “We visited on Wednesday and it was a lovely surprise to see a new resident in Sammy’s cage, welcome Pete.”
Suzanne Allen said: “I saw him today, he is so gorgeous.”
Hilary Williams declared “Sure Sammy would approve,” while Lindsay Lawrence added: “I’ll be bringing my son along soon to say hello.”
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