By Filipa Gaspar

Dogs working for God as the official assistant vergers at a historic abbey are retiring, as the building is getting too cold for them.

Labradors Eric, 11, and Florence, 10, belong to Chris Skepper - Head Verger of Tewkesbury Abbey in Gloucestershire.

Chris's wife and daughter went away from home for an extended period of time leaving him alone with the two dogs .

He decided to seek permission from the Head Verge to bring Eric and Florence to work with him - so they would not be left on their own.

They would come into Tewkesbury Abbey on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and two Sundays a month - as official assistant vergers.

But as the cathedral is getting to cold for the dogs , the owner said they are being retired due to the freezing winter temperatures.

A pos

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