UTV News is.gd/y2srSZ
Moneymore man Tommy McWilliams has been taking his gander for a dander after saving him from being stoned by youths in a local park 13 years ago.
And Bertie the goose has been at Tommy's side ever since the 74-year-old rescued him.
"The young lads were stoning him with airguns and pellets, things like that so I just brought him off the pond," explained Tommy.
He was taken home to recuperate with a daily visit to the pond. But, when it was time for Bertie to return to the water permanently - he wouldn't stay.
He waddled back home to Tommy's house where he's remained ever since.
The two are now a familiar sight on their daily walks, especially at the local shop where Bertie waits at the door while his companions stocks up.
Tommy told UTV that the goose keeps the house as safe as any guard dog.
Bertie, who has reached the awkward teenage stage, doesn't like women, it seems he wants to be bachelor Tommy's only feathered friend.
The 15-year-old bird also kept Tommy's spirits up when he was receiving treatment for cancer recently and now the goose is spoiled.
With the average lifespan of a goose around 40 years, the pair have years of friendship to come.
"He's a spoilt rascal, surely," the pensioner admitted.
UTV News is.gd/y2srSZ
22 авг 2013
