PEOPLE of Clunbury noticed something odd on July 31. All sorts of living creatures and their owners made their way through the village, to St Swithins Church to thank God for the companionship of animals. Numerous dogs attended together with ponies, chickens, butterflies and many others. The fine day resulted in the service being held outside in the beautiful churchyard.
When there is a 5th Sunday in the month there is a special Benefice United Service in one of the seven churches in the Clun Valley benefice. Simon conducted these services successfully in his former parishes in South Herefordshire so when it came to Clunbury's turn the PCC all agreed that this would be a great idea. He and his Border Collie Lillie led a short entertaining service and those attending enjoyed refreshments afterwards.
Simon said "Animals are an important part of many peoples' lives and this is a unique opportunity to thank God for their companionship. So often the bond between person and pet is like no other relationship."
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