WETTING the baby's head took on a whole new meaning at Salisbury Cathedral this weekend - thanks to a Devizes brewer.

Wadworth Brewery loaned the church a special vessel to be used as a font in baptisms.

An archaeological dig at the cathedral meant the church was unable to use its font.

When Devizes brewery bosses heard about the problemc they raided a storeroom and donated an old copper priming vessel.

The vessel, which was previously used for dissolving sugar during the brewing process, was checked to make sure it was water-tight and then sent to Salisbury.

It was soon slotted into place, meaning the cathedral could proceed with its Easter baptisms as planned.

Paul Sullivan, Wadworth's marketing manager, said: "We are delighted to support the cathedral.

"But even we were surprised when the Archdeacon of Wiltshire, who lives in our home town of Devizes, literally knocked on our front door asking for some help.

"It's an unusual donation, but the vessel has been out of action at the brewery for many years.

"It was due to go on display in our visitor centre, but we felt the cathedral's need was rather more pressing.

"Our team at the brewery pulled out all the stops to get the container looking its best."

The chancellor of the cathedral, Canon Edward Probert, said: "We are extremely grateful to Wadworth for coming to our rescue and at such short notice.

"I have to say that this is one of the most unusual vessels the cathedral has used as a font."