Pets attended a church service in Ardrossan as part of a special ‘animal blessing’ ceremony.

Owners brought along their dogs to St Andrews Episcopal Church on Saturday, October 5 for the annual Blessing of the Animals.

The unusual service was led by Linda Whitby, who reminded the canine congregation of the Patron Saint for animals, St Francis of Assisi.

Churches all over the world hold animal blessing services at the start of October to celebrate the saint’s love for wildlife.

Eveline Grey from St Andrew’s Church said: “This is an unusual service to many, but it goes back many years when farm animals were blessed to ensure a good harvest time.

“Nowadays, animals are part of our family and as such deserve a thank you for the love they give.

“Cats were represented by photographs and we even had a toad who is living in someone’s pond. If they had been there it many have been a noisier service, but one of the dogs did sing every hymn with us.

“In this photo we see some of the animals and owners who were there.

“This is an annual event so look out for the announcement for next year and join us then.

“After the service the dogs had treats and the humans had tea and coffee.”