Church mice at Chelmsford Cathedral are saying their prayers more earnestly since a cat began attending services.

Tinker, a partially-sighted Burmese cross, has the blessing of Provost Peter Judd to accompany her owner, Ann Wiltshire, to Sunday morning worship.

When Ann goes forward to take holy communion, Tinker hops on to her shoulders and remains there until she returns to her pew.

"We attend the cathedral together and so, when I go up for communion, she comes with me and receives a blessing," said Ann, who says that Tinker's companionship has helped save her sanity and prompted friendships.

"I have had years of therapy but, since Tinker came into my life two years ago, she has helped me to grow in self-confidence and self-respect.

The Provost said: "Tinker is an important part of Ann's life and is very welcome at our services. It reminds me of The Church Mouse story in which a meek and mild church cat called Sampson nods off during a Harvest sermon.

"He awakes to see Arthur the mouse and, forgetting he is converted, charges around the pews trying to catch him."

Ann, who lives in Meadgate, Chelmsford, said: "Tinker accompanies me everywhere I go and people admire her happily sitting on my shoulders."

Ann Wiltshire with Tinker in Chelmsford Cathedral.

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