AN unusual congregation will flock to Worcester Cathedral for a special service next month.

All creatures great and small — and their owners — can attend an animal-friendly service at the cathedral on Saturday, April 18.

The Animal Blessing event raises money for the Retired Greyhound Trust (RGT), and will include animal-related hymns, readings, music and a memory tree, where people can leave memories of pets that have died.

But the service isn't just limited to receiving dogs — all animals are welcome to attend.

Tracey Parbery, organiser of the blessing, said: “We are excited to welcome greyhounds, owners, RGT volunteers and supporters to this very special service which commemorates 40 years of the charity's work. The RGT has found loving homes for more than 70,000 greyhounds since 1975, and I thought this blessing would be a lovely way to recognise this achievement.

"Basically I saw something like it on television once, possibly on the Vicar of Dibley, and thought it would be great to do something similar. I approached the cathedral, not expecting them to say yes, but to my surprise they thought it was a great idea.

“We would like to extend an invitation to anyone who loves animals, supports the RGT or who would simply like to find out more about the charity’s work. It promises to be a great day for dogs and owners alike, and we hope many people will join us for this unique celebration.

"Any animals are welcome though. If you've got a pet lizard, bring it along. If you've got a hamster, bring it along in its cage. There is a safety element involved of course, and we hope people will use common sense. We expect most people bringing cats will bring them in a carrier rather than on a lead, and we will have stewards on the doors."

The day will also include refreshments and people can browse a number of charity and guest stalls in the cathedral’s cloisters.

The event starts at 2pm and admission is free. At 1.15pm there will be an animal parade from the Worcester Bridge.

Call 07703 280321 for more information.