Salisbury Cathedral is set to hold its first service for pets in September.

On Saturday, September 14, at 2pm, the cathedral will host an informal afternoon service called 'All Creatures Great And Small: A Service Of Blessing For Our Pets'.

It will bless and give thanks for all God’s creatures, and the joy and companionship they bring to people's lives.

Aimed at children and their families, the service will include readings, hymns and music sung by the cathedral choristers and the cathedral’s junior choir.

There will be hymns by John Rutter and Andrew Carter, as well as music from the pop cantata Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo.

Canon Precentor, Anna Macham, said: “Pets can be very important to our lives, offering comfort and companionship.

"We hope this service will be an uplifting and enjoyable afternoon, celebrating the bond many of us have with our animals.”

The service will be held at the west end of the cathedral, with doors opening onto the lawn.

Visitors are welcome to join the service inside the cathedral or gather with their animals outside, and they are invited to bring their pets or a photo of their favourite animal.