Pub regulars enjoyed a new kind of service -- when a parish priest blessed an 11-week-old baby in the bar.

Marie Underhill and Barry Mackaness, with the Rev Edward Tildesley, centre, holding baby Sam

Nearly 100 people came to the Rev Edward Tildesley's 20-minute service of thanksgiving for the life of Sam Mackaness at the Waggon and Horses at Culham near Abingdon.

Sam, the son of the pub's managers Barry Mackaness and Marie Underhill, has not been christened but his parents wanted some form of celebration "under the eyes of God".

Mr Mackaness, 40, said: "It was a lovely service. "We did not have Sam christened because we want him to make up his own mind what religion he decides to follow."

Mr Tildesley said: "I am glad the service took place at the heart of the life and work of the family. God is everywhere, where people live, work and enjoy themselves.

"Relations between the church and inns providing refreshment for travellers close to religious establishments go back centuries."