We started off by giving thanks, and then saying goodbye to the much respected and much loved Fr David and his wife Claudia. They have been part of St George’s for nine years, faithfully ministering to everyone, and playing a significant role during the interregnum (the time when one Vicar leaves and the church appoints the next). Fr David’s kind, warm manner alongside a curious and expansive mind have been such a gift to so many, and we wish them well as they take a step back from regular ministry to concentrate on family and work commitments.

From there we moved onto our Pet Service – it has been a frustrating weekend as we had anxiously consulted numerous weather apps trying to work out when the predicted storms would fall. Eventually, we decided to cancel the Dog’s Delight led by Perfect Paws in the Park, and moved the Pet Service into church where we could shelter from the heat or the storms! We were joined by the RSPCA alongside the charity Karen’s Kitties who were able to share about some of the work that they do. It was wonderful to see lots of dog’s make the church their home, and hear the excited shrieks of children as they attempted to keep them calm! Ricky the donkey turned out to be Pascal the donkey (!) who acquitted himself with aplomb and received lots of attention. We also heard from Paul Buchannan – a local vet who has recently retired, and so had lots of insights and stories to share!