A chaplain's online 'thoughts of the day' have gone viral, touching the hearts of many.

David Featch, who works at MHA Hampton Lodge in Southampton, has been posting uplifting messages on the care home's Facebook page.

The posts, a mix of light-hearted and thought-provoking messages, have become a hit with the community.

One of his posts recently went viral, attracting more than 2,000 views in 24 hours, compared to the usual 80 to 90.

Mr Featch's efforts have not gone unnoticed, with Lord Mayor of Southampton, Councillor David Shields, paying him a visit to commend his community engagement work.

Mr Featch said: "I enjoy doing the thoughts of the day as it puts a smile on the faces of residents.

"I try to show the residents the posts before uploading them and they really enjoy them.

"I wasn't aware how popular they were to begin with, but recently I have been told they have started to go viral."

He began the daily posts four months ago and has received positive feedback from colleagues, residents' families, and the wider community.

He said: "It's part of my outreach and I really enjoy taking the time to carefully select a mixture of quotes.

"It provides some inspiration and motivation and makes me feel very proud.

"It helps to make a difference to many people."

Mr Featch splits his time between MHA Hampton Lodge, which provides nursing and residential dementia care for up to 44 people, and MHA Hebron Court, a retirement living complex made up of 43 one and two-bedroom apartments.

He credits the team at MHA Hampton Lodge, particularly the administration manager, for their support in uploading the posts and pictures.

His daily quotes have inspired many in the Southampton community, with Mr Featch receiving letters and emails from those who have been touched by his words.

He said: "I have received some great feedback from my colleagues, as well as family members of residents and members of the community."