Pet owners, charities, and vets united to celebrate the opening of a new building at Dignity Pet Crematorium.

The Homecoming Building was officially opened on Sunday, September 1, with more than 100 guests in attendance at the Winchfield crematorium.

The event was marked by a warm welcome from Kevin Spurgeon, the managing director at Dignity Pet Crematorium.

Jess Tyrell, from Ladybug Art, who is also a pet grief artist, cut the ribbon to open the doors followed by the Reverend Tara Hellings, who blessed the building.

READ MORE: Pet crematorium to open 'homecoming' space to offer healing to grieving families

Artist Jess Tyrell and Kevin Spurgeon cut the ribbon on the building (Image: Dignity Pet Crematorium) She said: "This new building is more than just bricks and mortar.

"It represents the continued legacy of compassion that the Dignity Pet Crematorium family brings to their work every single day.

"It is a space where we honour the bonds between pets and their owners, where we realise the true meaning of love, and where each homecoming is met with understanding.

"This building is a testament to what Dignity is all about."

Guests were given the opportunity to tour the working crematorium, including the Victorian brick kiln, and speak with supporting animal charities including Helping Dogs and Cats UK Rescue, Dogs Walk This Way Rescue, Hounds for Heroes, Next Chapter Animal Rescue, and The Happy Hedgehog Rescue.

SEE MORE: Pet crematorium donates £1k to animal charities following successful campaign

Mr Spurgeon said: "Our new Homecoming Building reflects our commitment to creating a space that honours those cherished memories.

"It’s not just about saying goodbye, it’s about holding onto special moments."

Dignity Pet Crematorium, which is celebrating 30 years of helping pet owners and families, said the Homecoming Building will provide a dedicated space for owners to collect the ashes and keepsakes of their pets.