AN ANIMAL church service has taken place at a rescue centre in the county.

The

Worcestershire Animal Rescue Service

(WARS) located in Hawthorn Lane in Malvern, welcomed seven dogs along with their owners.

Rev Crellin, vicar of the benefice of Powick, Guarlford, and Madresfield, carried out the blessings, said: “Saint Francis of Assisi loved all animals and by caring for animals we learn a great deal about ourselves.

“All animals go to heaven.”

Community and events fundraiser for WARS, Spencer Harris, said: “Everything we do at here has community at its heart, and we love opening our doors so that everyone can see the amazing work we do.

“The opportunity to work closely with the local church offers us an opportunity to bring people together and celebrate our companion animals.

“We rely solely on donations from our supporters and being able to talk to people gives us the opportunity to help even more animals, as we continue to grow and develop.”

The full service ran from 3pm until 4:30pm on Sunday June 23 and included hymns and light refreshments.

The next pet service will be held on Sunday September 22, starting at 3pm.

Anyone interested in attending can contact the charity can contact the charity on 01905 83165.

WARS, registered as a charity in 1984, has been based at its site in Malvern since 1991 and has successfully rehomed over 4,000 animals since it first opened its doors to rescue animals in 2001.

The charity are currently recruiting for volunteer dog walkers.

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