CATS, dogs, gerbils and many other furry and feathered friends were blessed as St Andrew’s Parish Church held its first ever pet service.

Reverend Canon Nigel Nicholson led the hour-long service at 3.30pm while Children’s Voices, a fun singing group for primary age children, sang All Things Bright and Beautiful.

Parishioner Meg Daniels said: “There were cats gerbils and many dogs. They were all very excitable but calmed down during the first hymn.

“Each pet was blessed in turn and several owners hoped the service will be the first of many.”