HUDDERSFIELD Parish Church looked more like Noah's Ark when it was filled with animals for a special service yesterday.
People were invited to bring pets to the service, where prayers were said for the welfare of animals.
Pets were also blessed at the service, organised in conjunction with the Huddersfield branch of the RSPCA.
It is the third time such a service had been held in the town.
The RSPCA is a non-religious organisation, but uses the service to make people aware of cruelty to animals that goes on in the region.
In Yorkshire and the North-East last year RSPCA inspectors investigated more than 18,000 complaints, rescued 700 animals and prosecuted almost 200 cruelty cases.
The Rev Catherine Ogle, Vicar of Huddersfield, said the church was happy to support the RSPCA.
"I'm pleased they have asked us to host this service. It's important that we remember the responsibility we have and the respect that animals deserve," she added.
"Many people love the opportunity of bringing their pets to church. Pets play a very important part in the lives of many people and it is good to give thanks for them."
The pets brought to the service were mainly dogs, but several cats and a family of guinea pigs also made an appearance.
Tony Walter, of Berry Brow, brought his two Jack Russell dogs, Chutney and Tess.
Mr Walter, a member of the RSPCA, got the dogs from a rescue home two-and-a-half years ago.
He said: "This is the third time we've come. I like to support the event. The dogs are quite good, but they get a bit mesmerised by all the other dogs around."
David Swallow, of Fartown, was at the service with his cat, Whisky.
He said: "I have not been to the service before. Whisky was a rescue cat and I'm happy to have him, so it is a way of saying thank you for him and supporting the RSPCA."
The animal service is held in October because October 4 is the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, who had a special affinity with animals.
