In pictures: All creatures great and small attend service at Ely Cathedral

Around 450 animal lovers, along with their pets, flocked to Ely Cathedral on Sunday (22 September) to attend the annual animal service.

The cathedral was filled with dogs, rabbits, cats, hamsters and gerbils for the occasion and the cathedral’s honorary donkey, Marley, with owner Sue also came along.

Also attending was eight-year-old Primrose and Black, a miniature Shetland Pony, who had travelled from Buckinghamshire to attend.

With a focus on animal welfare and working animals, the cathedral welcomed representatives from Medical Detection Dogs to explain how dogs can be specifically trained to detect life-threatening diseases, including some cancers, leading to early detection and often saving lives.

Lesley Ann Thompson, director of communications and commerce at the cathedral, said: “This service is about celebrating animals of every kind.

“We all understand and appreciate the joy and comfort our pets bring us, but this event is also about acknowledging those who care for animals as well as the animals who give us support in our daily lives such as therapy dogs, guide dogs, medical detection dogs – plus all those animals working alongside the police, armed forces and search and rescue teams.”