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Furry friends pose for cathedral's 2026 calendar

Aimee Dexter
News imageTom Soper Photography A brown and white Springer Spaniel is on the left of the image sat in front of a golden eagle lectern. A book is sat on the lectern and the dog has its right paw up on the book.Tom Soper Photography
Hazel the springer spaniel was one of 12 dogs who took part in the St Edmundsbury Cathedral calendar

A springer spaniel reading from a lectern and a dachshund attending a service are among a group of dogs who feature in a cathedral's calendar.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, has unveiled the photos from its second calendar featuring the 12 furry friends.

The cathedral said the calendar idea was first launched last year after the town was voted the most dog-friendly town in the UK.

"Last year's Dogs in the Cathedral Calendar was a big hit, so we wanted to expand on that," said marketing manager Catherine Rayson.

"We had such a fun time photographing this year's models in the cathedral and grounds."

Ms Rayson said this year's edition was a "bigger" wall calendar.

News imageTom Soper Photography A black and brown Dachshund is stood on a pillow on a pew in the cathedral. Either side of the dog are angels praying.Tom Soper Photography
Bandit the dachshund was pictured sitting on a pew attending a service
News imageTom Soper Photography A black and brown Border Terrier is sat on the left of the image in front of a row of small bushes. On the right is a sign which says NO FOULING and KEEP DOGS ON LEADS.Tom Soper Photography
Bracken the border terrier escaped his lead for his moment in the spotlight

Bury St Edmunds has been put forward again as contender for the UK's most dog-friendly town in the National Dog Friendly Awards.

The town recently developed its own dog-friendly scheme to help visitors and residents easily identify where their four-legged friend was welcome.

Cathedral staff say they welcome visitors and their furry companions if they are kept on a lead.

They can also enjoy a water bowl outside the cathedral and dog treats from the welcome desk.

The calendar will be on sale at the cathedral for £10.

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