A Palm Sunday donkey has left his own offering in a Pembrokeshire church.

All eyes were on furry friend Basil as he played the important role of Jesus’ steed at the special service at St Mary’s Church, Tenby.

Then an un-holy sound echoed around the building as Basil deposited a reminder of his presence on the floor, leaving churchwardens to spring into action with mops and buckets.

“This was the fifth time we have welcomed Basil into the church, but this has never happened before,” said the Rector, Canon Andrew Grace.

“Fortunately, everyone took it in their stride and the wardens very kindly cleared up the mess!”

Youngsters from the church’s Sunday Club waved palm leaves as Basil - with Lewis Thompson aboard as Jesus - made his way around the church with the congregation of around 150 people following.

“We normally have a procession around the town, but the weather was against us this year,” said Canon Grace.

“It’s always a special service, which I think really brings home the story of Palm Sunday to begin Holy Week.

“There is something about a donkey which is so moving, especially to see a child riding on his back in the role of Jesus.”