Bertie the Cat offers festive story

Bertie the Cathedral Cat welcomes you to Chichester Cathedral this Christmas in a new animated story underlining “This is a safe place where everyone is welcome”.

The special new Christmas talecanbeenjoyedonlineonyoutube at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=n_hqrfqx-iu

Oliver Tubb, head of marketing and communications at the Cathedral, said: “The short animation follows the journey of Bertie, a real cat who lives on the Cathedral Close, as he finally sneaks into the historic cathedral and welcomes a family to join one of the annual carol services.

“Written and narrated by the interim Dean of Chichester, The Rev Canon Simon Holland, and illustrated by Sussex-based artist Chloe Robertson, you can discover the story online, via the Cathedral website, or through social media channels.

“Bertie’s story has been developed in collaboration with Sanctuaryinchichester–alocal charity that supports refugees and asylum seekers arriving in our area in great need, enabling themtobuildanewlifeinchichester, most having found refuge from conflict or persecution based on religious, social and or ethnic discrimination.

“That’s not all! A very special Christmas Trail will also take place at the cathedral for you to spot Bertie enjoying the many treasures and artworks. Should you find all of the Berties, you’ll winadecorationforyourchristmas tree.

"There are also a number of pop-up events for families, including on Saturday, December 16 at 10am when the Rev Canon Simon Holland will read the story of Bertie the Cathedral Cat in thespectacularsettingofthecathedral Nave.”