FARMERS from across the region will descend on Cawthorne this weekend to take part in the afternoon lambing service.

It is the first time the service has taken place in the village and has been organised to bless farmers' new-born lambs.

The Bishop of Wakefield, the Right Rev Stephen Platten, will lead the service at All Saints' parish church this Sunday at 3.30pm.

Farmers been invited with people coming from across South and West Yorkshire, along with representatives of the National Farmers' Union and the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

The Vicar of Cawthorne, Rev Simon Reynolds, said the church is delighted to be hosting the service and has given his full backing to local farmers.

He added: "Cawthorne is the ideal place as we have 18 working farms in our parish alone, along with Cannon Hall. So support for the farming community is a key element of our ministry to the parish." The Bishop of Wakefield told the Chronicle lambing is always a sign of new life and new beginnings but can be a very stressful and demanding time for everyone involved.

He said: "I hope this service will provide an opportunity to give thanks for the gift of new lambs, to remind ourselves of God's creative activity in his world, and to pray for farmers and producers who are facing tough challenges."

Everyone is welcome to attend the service and the afternoon tea. Contact: Rev Simon Reynolds on 384596.