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The secret and misunderstood world of the Brony - an adult who collects My Little Ponies - is to be gently explained in a new documentary which will be broadcast on Monday.

With the release of the first-ever My Little Pony feature film at the cinema, the documentary will feature fans who have formed a Bristol-based group called the Severn Bronies.

A Brony is defined as superfan who loves My Little Pony, specifically the fourth generation of the show, collects My Little Pony merchandise, enjoys talking about the show and sharing it with friends.

The Inside Out West programme met Sam and Marcus as they look forward to the release of the new movie starring their favourite characters.

As well as sharing their excitement about the film, Sam and Marcus explain what being a Brony means to them.

Marcus said he has struggled with depression and anxiety since he was a teenager and says that the animated franchise helps lift his mood.

“When I’m feeling down and don’t want to do anything, putting on something like My Little Pony with its colour and very uplifting nature, I find really helps with dealing with depression and anxiety," he said.

Sam also described how he has seen the show help people deal with depression, suicidal thoughts and social isolation.

But outside of the My Little Pony fandom, some people think being a Brony has a sinister side, and must be something sexual.

“Some people seem to think it’s sexual attraction to the characters, or they might want to do things with actual horses,” said Sam.

“Or they collect cuddly toys to do lewd things to them, which is sensationalist hype and untrue.

“If anyone thinks this is strange or unusual. I would say there are so many different types of people in the world who enjoy strange or unusual things, and so long as it makes someone happy and doesn’t hurt them, what does it matter?”

The programme will follow the Severn Bronies to the cinema to watch the Inside Out West accompanies the Severn Bronies as they head to a Bristol cinema to see the eagerly-anticipated movie release.

Marcus and Sam said anyone thinking of joining them will be more than welcome. "If anyone’s thinking of giving the show a shot, there’s nothing lost by trying and you might find it’s something you enjoy," said Sam.

“Worst-case scenario, you’re not into it. Best-case scenario, you’re one of us," he added.

* Inside Out West will be on BBC One on Monday at 7.30pm