ON the theme of the joys of life, a four-day flower festival attracted crowds to Headley’s All Saints Church to see 25 exhibits, including one by the pupils of the village’s Holme Primary School called The Joy of Growing Minds.

The event was the first flower festival to be held in the village for some time and it was organised by Joan Baillie to raise funds for All Saints Church. It gave entrants from Headley and the surrounding villages, including churches and flower clubs, the chance to create imaginative arrangements with either bought or garden flowers.

The themed arrangements celebrated the joys of travel, friendship, art and grandparents.

Parish administrator Tina Wareham said: “It was a wonderful festival. Entry was free and we had a lot of people over the four days. I think the fine weather helped.

“We provided lunch, tea and refreshments in the Church Centre, thanks to some willing members of the church.

“The church looked lovely. The screen and the pews were all decorated with flowers and, thanks to our generous visitors, the donations jar soon filled up.

“It was a busy week and was enjoyed by everyone and there were some very positive comments. As a result, All Saints is hoping to hold other events in the future.”

There was a concert in the church on Saturday night, given by soprano Joanna Weeks, accompanied by Matthew Rickard.

Mrs Wareham said: “We raised more than £1,000, which will be very welcome as we have to do some repairs to the church tower.”