As Christians mark the season of Advent with prayers and special services, a city church in St Albans is organising an event with a difference.

Blandford Road church is hoping to find the most festive dog in the area as it launches its Christmas programme with  a 'Carols in the Park' event on 6 December.

Associate Minister Peter Crumpler said: “Clarence Park is a favourite place for dogs and their owners, and we’re keen to include both in our Christmas celebrations. We’re inviting people to bring along their dogs, and to join in singing the well-known carols. And there will be a prize to the eye-catching winner that turns up on the day."

Singers from St Paul’s Church, Fleetville, will be leading the carols which will mark the beginning of the church's special Christmas programme.