ST MICHAEL and All Angels, Chalton was chosen by the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals as joint winners of the Animal Friendly Church Awards for 2022.

Samantha Chandler, Honorary Secretary was delighted that a small rural church had won this award. They were given a beautiful wall plaque and a hamper of cruelty-free, eco-friendly goodies for the church.

Their recognition was as a result of applying to become an animal-friendly church, which included setting aside a ‘wild’ area in the graveyard, a bug hotel handmade by a parishioner, an amazing tribute to service animals and our infamous annual pet service.

The last pet service include two ponies an American goose called ‘Mrs Simpson’, numerous dogs (along with their owners) and a chicken which led to an enthusiastic time of worship especially during the singing! Pets are an important part of our lives and especially so as companions for older people. So it is great to honour them as creatures in God’s world at least once a year.

As a rural church, St Michael’s is frequently visited by dogs with their rambling friends. They are welcomed and there is always water and biscuits on hand.

St Michael’s is very grateful to the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals for recognising their efforts.