A VERITABLE menagerie of beast turned out for an open-air service in a Suffolk churchyard.

Pet owners and farmers were invited to take their animals along to St Andrew’s Church, Aldringham, near Leiston, for a blessing from the Rector, Christine Brooks.

Those who couldn’t bring pets along were welcome to escort their teddies to the service, which was held in favourable weather for the gathered churchgoers.

Creatures great and small included cats, dogs, sheep and even a calf.

The service was the 16th of its kind to be held at the church and conducted by the Rev Christine Brooks, who said: “It’s a bit of fun but also a chance to give thanks to God for the whole of creation.

“Animals give us companionship, commitment and comfort and I think its important to celebrate that.

“It’s amazing how peaceful it can be at these services.”

As well as a special sermon, the service included the hymns All Things Bright and Beautiful and Think of a World Without Any Flowers.

A collection was made at the service and will be sent to Worldwide Fund for Nature.