Greyhounds gathered around the Christmas tree on Hersham Green this weekend for a blessing by the local vicar.

Hersham Hounds, a charity devoted to caring for and homing retired racing greyhounds, encouraged people to come down, walk the dogs and join in on Christmas carols.

Carol from Wimbledon Greyhound Welfare said: “It was nice for the dogs, it made them feel special.

“It is nice to have these sorts of events, because it is an opportunity to meet with the community, people can switch off from their own problems at home and devote their own time to worthy greyhounds such as these who appreciate the opportunity to see the local scenery and meet the local people.”

Reverend Martin Fletcher of St Peter’s Church led the prayer to bless about dogs.

Baubles were put on the Christmas tree in remembrance of the people and pets that have passed.

For Carol, this was an opportunity to pay tribute to the greyhounds that lived in their sanctuary.

She said: “It is nice to remember at Christmas the people that we have loved and lost.”

Hersham Councillor Roy Green, who supports the Greyhound Centre, said: “It was nice for everyone to come together.”

Mince pies and mulled wine were available ahead of the Christmas light switch on in the village on Saturday, December 14.