See Oatesy the psychic lamb's prediction for Hartlepool United play-off final result

The spring lamb, who is a popular attraction with visitors at Tweddle Children’s Animal Farm, in Blackhall Colliery, was in no doubt whatsoever when he was asked to forecast the result of Sunday’s match between Hartlepool and Torquay United.

Christened by the team at the children’s animal farm in honour of Pools’ top scorer Rhys Oates the woolly mascot was selected for the important task because of his special animal sixth sense in knowing when it is meal time.

Two bowls of food were put out in the paddock, one marked “win” and one labelled “lose”, for her to choose from.

And after a brief moment of hesitation and nibbling the grass, Oatesy made a beeline straight for the winning dish and tucked in.

She even returned to it for a second time munching away some more while the losing dish remained completely untouched.

Farm hand Lauren Francis said: “I think animals know better than we do. I definitely think she chose the right bowl.”

All the staff at Tweddle Farm are also backing Pools to win and wishing them every success for Sunday.

"Hartlepool have got to win,” added Lauren.

It’s a prediction every Pools fan will agree with as they prepare to cheer the lads on either at the game in person or by watching it live on TV.

Victory will see them return to the Football League after a four-year gap.

Oatesy is one of seven Tweddle Farm lambs. Coming from set of triplets he has been hand reared and bottle fed from birth.

Lauren added: "He’s great. They’re so funny all bouncing around the paddock on a morning.

"They’re really great fun and are really popular with the kids.”

Tweddle Farm is getting back to normal after reopening from lockdown in April with the return of outdoor facilities.

It was followed by its indoor play and animal barns in May.

“We’re so glad,” said Lauren. “We’ve still got social distancing and face coverings inside, otherwise we’ve got everything going again and it’s great.”

Tweddle Farm, at Fillpoke Lane, Blackhall Colliery, is open 10am-5pm seven days a week.

For more details visit www.tweddlefarm.co.uk

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