IN recognition of the UK being a nation of animal lovers, the companionship provided by pets and the love felt for them by their owners, Holy Cross in Crediton held a pet service in the church on Saturday, October 4.

The service was conducted by Rev Matthew Tregenza and included a blessing of the pets.

There were seven dogs present, Zoro, Mabel, Pickle, Bonnie, Sam, Bilbo and Lily.

Also, a model of a hedgehog, named Spiny Norman, was taken along by one local resident who feeds up to six hedgehogs on a regular basis in her garden.

Rev Tregenza explained that the date was suitable for a pet service as October 4 is when St Francis of Assisi (c. 1181 – October 3, 1226) is remembered.

He said pets reflect our creator, are part of our families, are companions and provide us with blessings, always there through the joys and sadness of life, their joy often lifting our spirits, pets mirroring that unconditional love.

He said many of the stories that surround the life of Francis say that he had a great love for animals and the environment.

He outlined how it has become customary for churches to hold ceremonies blessing animals on or near his feast day of October 4 which has now become World Animal Day.

A collection of legends and folklore sprang up after Francis' death.

One account describes how one day, while Francis was travelling with some companions, they happened upon a place in the road where birds filled the trees on either side.

Francis told his companions to "wait for me while I go to preach to my sisters the birds".

The birds surrounded him, intrigued by the power of his voice and not one of them flew away.

Coffee and biscuits were served for the humans after the service, dog treats for the canine companions.