Otley man can claim pension for llama, rules court ...

After a bitter battle at the High Court in That London, a man whose common law llama was refused a pension has had the decision overturned. It marks a victory for hundreds of townsfolk and their live-in animals.

 

Brian Best has lived with Shirley the llama since 1988, having fallen for her charms whilst judging a pig-wrestling contest at an agricultural show. He took her home and they have been residing together ever since.

 

Said Mr Best: ‘I really don’t understand what the problem is. People take their dogs for a walk and stroke their cats. Why can’t I sleep with my llama? It’s horses for courses. Without pension rights, if I was to die Shirley would be left with nothing, not even a stable. Where’s the justice in that?’

 

The judge in the case, His Highness Mrs Renee Hampshire, took more than 11 minutes to deliberate over the case. Speaking on the steps of the High Court, she said: ‘I like llamas so I said yes’.

 

Since the decision, other Otley residents have come forward saying they will now be putting in claims for pension rights for their animals, including Ms Sheila Upperdown, who has shared a life with her donkey Arthur for more than 82 years.