PET owners were able to take their beloved animals for a blessing at Astley & Tyldesley Methodist Church at an event inspired by sitcom The Vicar of Dibley.

Revd Sue Whitehead, minister of the Elliott Street church from 2000 to 2010, organised the day after seeing an episode of the comedy, with cats, dogs and even chickens among the 50 or so animals in attendees.

"It went well and was a lovely atmosphere," said Revd Whitehead.