Abbey's verger dogs to retire after two years

Eric (left) and Flo (right) have greeted visitors to Tewkesbury Abbey for two years

A pair of Labradors who have "put a smile on people's faces" while working at a church are retiring, their owner says.

Chris Skepper, head verger at Tewkesbury Abbey, started bringing Eric and Flo into work two years ago as helpers while his wife and daughter were visiting family in New Zealand.

"As soon as I get them out the car and put their lanyards on, they know what's happening and they come in, wagging their tails and they're very happy," Mr Skepper said.

Eric and Flo, who are aged 11 and 10 respectively, are being retired due to the winter temperatures inside the abbey, he added, but may make an appearance at future events.

Mr Skepper said Eric and Flo have made a big impact on visitors, particularly elderly care home residents, who have found the pair a reminder of their own dogs from down the years.

"What we found was people aren't that used to going into a church any more and when they come in, they're a bit apprehensive," he said.

"But they meet Eric and Flo and they tend to put a smile on people's faces because it's ordinary, it's homely, and it's something people can relate to."

People from Belfast, Germany, Switzerland, and the Australian state of Tasmania have visited Tewkesbury Abbey to meet Eric and Flo.

Eric and Flo have been a hit with visitors to Tewkesbury Abbey

Mr Skepper said the decision to 'retire' Eric and Flo has been taken for their welfare.

Although the temperatures inside Tewkesbury Abbey are ideal for them on hot summer days, it is a different story in the winter, he said.

"They're not getting any younger - it's time for them to winter at home," he said.

"Certainly when we've got the moon coming for half term, they'll both be here for the story time under the moon with the children."

A retirement party is being held for Eric and Flo at Tewkesbury Abbey on 1 October.