A CHURCH service in Gornal received some extra special visitors when animals joined in with the congregation, which proved a hit with worshippers.

St Peter's Church in Upper Gornal hosted the special service for pets on Sunday February 10, where worshippers were invited to bring along their furry friends.

The church was packed out with pooches and cats, while the human worshippers sang hymns celebrating animals were sang, such as 'All Things Bright and Beautiful'.

The animals were also blessed by Reverend Catherine Mitchell who led the unique service.

Reverend Mitchell said: "It was great to fill the church with pets and their owners. It's brought a whole new group of people into church and shows we want to provide the kind of service that is relevant today."

Praising the newcomers to the church, she added: "All our pets were remarkably well-behaved!"