ANIMAL lovers are invited to have their pets blessed in a special service just for them this weekend.

Paul Wilson veterinary surgery in Bishop Auckland has issued an open invitation for people to bring their beloved animals to the service on Sunday to help celebrate National pet week.

Auxiliary nurse Julie Ryan said: "We wanted to do something for National pet week so we are having the pet blessing this Sunday and we are doing a sponsored walk next Sunday.''

The surgery approached Rev John Marshall from St Andrews and St Annes churches, in the town, to take the special service.

"He is a client and was an obvious choice for the blessing. He jumped at the chance and has prepared an order of service and everything,'' said Mrs Ryan.

Staff from the surgery are taking their pets along to the Scout Hall, in Kingsway, Bishop Auckland, for the service at 3pm.

And they are inviting pet lovers from the town to bring their animals as well for a small donation of a can of pet food to be given to animal shelters in the area.

Refreshments will be available and any money raised will be shared between the church and local animal charities.