St Mary's Church played host to a 'pawsome' dog-friendly event that 'raised the woof' this weekend.

The 12th century church on the banks of the River Hiz held a pet pooch service on Sunday evening.

The 'Pet and Favourite Toy' service on Sunday saw the church celebrate the companions who are so cherished in different seasons of our life - with the St Mary's team enjoying meeting the beloved creatures, great and small, and hearing about what they meant to their owners.

Regular Nub News weekend columnist A Churchwarden Writes told Hitchin Nub News: "The Pet and Favourite Toy Service on Sunday evening was a howling success, although everyone said we were barking mad to try it."

They added: "The idea was to think about those we cherish in all aspects of life, and for some at certain times that is their pet or a favourite toy from childhood which holds special memories. 

"Luckily no cats came along to disturb the harmony of the occasion, which included some beautiful music by our music director Alan and wife Liz on Piano and Flute, featuring the Dr Dolittle and Mary Poppins tunes.

"Hymns of course included 'All Things Bright and Beautiful, All creatures Great and Small'."

Those present were asked to tell a story about a pet or toy they had brought along.  

A Churchwarden Writes shared their stories with Hitchin Nub News: "Bridget explained that 'Little Ted' was made for her by her Mother when she first left home nearly 70 years ago, whilst young Oliver said his 'Big Ted' was also known as BB and was much pampered, including being dressed in his old pageboy outfit.

"Chip the Chocolate lab, had recently lost her sibling so was especially cherished by Wendy, a member of St Mary's choir who has made mini-ruffs for some of the other 'choir dogs' – including Suzie, who needs a pram to help her to get around these days but still regularly comes to our Wednesday services with her owner. 

"All the pets seemed to really enjoy the experience as they went up the aisle of the church with their owners to receive a blessing from Rev Charmaine, and all behaved impeccably throughout."

St Mary's confirmed to Nub News that next year there are plans for a more ambitious repeat of the service.

Hopefully there won't be any pup-a-razzi there as it will be a mastiff event...