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Meet Eric and Florence, two black Labradors who have become official members of staff at Tewkesbury Abbey in Gloucestershire, despite being dogs.
As reported by Good News Network, the pair, owned by lay minister and head verger Chris Skepper, became regular fixtures at the abbey due to a scheduling conflict. When Skepper's wife and daughter left home for an extended period last year, he found himself needing to care for the dogs while also managing his duties at the abbey.
Skepper sought permission to bring Eric and Florence, affectionately known as "Flo," to work. The dogs now accompany him to the abbey every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and two Sundays a month, earning the title of "assistant vergers."
The Labradors have become beloved by both staff and visitors, even donning their own name badges. "People absolutely love them," Skepper said. "They’ve added to the positive atmosphere here at the abbey."
Initially, the dogs were allowed on a trial basis for three weeks, provided they behaved. Their presence was so well-received that they were given a permanent role. Now, they lie quietly on mats during services and are often offered to visitors as therapy dogs.
Skepper, who has worked at the abbey since 2019, explains how the dogs help break down barriers for those unfamiliar with the church. "There are these big dark doors, and people aren’t always sure what to expect. But then they see the dogs and feel more at ease. Even if they don’t want to interact with them, it brings a smile to their faces."
At 9 and 10 years old, Eric and Flo are well-trained and obedient. Skepper notes that Labradors are "bred for a job" and love to be part of the action. "When I bring them to work, they hop out of the car, and once I put their lanyards on, they know they’re at work—and their tails are wagging away."
The dogs follow Skepper as he performs his verger duties, which include preparing for services, moving chairs, and polishing the abbey. “They’re brilliant at their new jobs,” he added.
[Information sourced from Good News Network]
