RESIDENTS in Twyford are being urged to control their pets following an incident involving two dogs and a burial service.

A message was sent to various members of the parish informing them that two dogs disrupted a burial service at Twyford St Mary’s Church after their owner had taken them along the path through the churchyard.

Ros Medd, secretary for the Parochial Church Council, said: “A dog walker using the path through the churchyard was recently horrified to round the corner of the church and find his two dogs disrupting a burial service. Sadly, it is not the first time this has happened and the distress caused to all parties by the time the situation is under control is very considerable.

“The church council expects all dog owners to behave considerately and respectfully in the churchyard whether a service is in progress or not, and that all dogs will be on a lead.

“Please remember that the churchyard is not a public or civic space like the Meads or Berry Meadow. It is a burial place.”