PARISHIONERS at St Stephen's in Astley had to take an 'udder' look on Sunday after a cow walked into church!

But despite rumours, it wasn't Vicar Chris Bracegirdle's attempt to beef up his sermon.

The surprise pantomime cow walked in just as he was starting his harvest festival sermon. Arranged by his wife, Gillian, two Mothers' Union members - Kathleen Wildman and Gillian Welsby - dressed for the part.

The fun was all part of a more serious venture by St Stephen's to buy a cow to send to Uganda which has just returned to political stability after years of strife and civil war. Buying a cow is one way western countries can help to re-establish the economy and help its population, particularly children, who have suffered from malnutrition.

After the service Priscilla the cow was outside church, a surprise arranged by Mr Bracegirdle.

Said his wife, Gillian: "Chris had arranged for Prisclla to be there. But he didn't know a thing about the pantomime cow. His face was a picture when it walked into church!"

Anyone wishing to contribute to the scheme which is also being run throughout the country can write to 'Send a Cow', Unit 4, Priston Mill, Priston, Bath BA2 9EQ.

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