Christ Church in the heart of Swindon's Old Town is inviting the local community to step back in time and discover stories of the town through flowers.
Its Working Lives in Bloom – A Flower Festival and Heritage Open Day will be held on Saturday 19 September from 1-4pm, with no charge for admission.
The event will bring together local organisations, community groups and flower arrangers to celebrate the everyday working lives and trades that have helped shape the history of the town.
The church and adjacent community centre will be transformed with colourful floral displays inspired by the event's theme.
A spokesperson said: “Working Lives in Bloom is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the history of our local community in a creative and accessible way. Flowers will help us tell the stories of the people, trades and organisations that have shaped Old Town and Swindon, while the Heritage Open Day gives visitors a chance to discover more about our beautiful church and its fascinating history.”
From butchers and bakers to candle makers and other local trades, the displays will explore the occupations and organisations that have played a part in the community's history.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the Grade II* listed 1851 church and its grounds.
Guided tours will include the church itself, its remarkable stained glass, the bell tower and the surrounding historic churchyard, which contains more than 23 war graves.
Refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon, alongside craft stalls featuring local makers.
As part of the event, a Flower Arranging Competition is open to everyone, with four classes:
- Window Display: Jobs that Shaped Our Town
- Pedestal Class: Working Together
- Table Exhibit: Market Town Place
- Children's Class: Baker's Basket
The competition provides an opportunity for individuals, families, community groups and organisations to get creative and interpret the themes through flowers and floral design.
Entry is open to all, and participants can enter by downloading the Flower Festival Entry Form and following the instructions for their chosen class.
The event is suitable for all ages and offers something for everyone, whether visitors are interested in local history, architecture, flowers, crafts or simply enjoying a relaxed afternoon in the heart of Old Town.
The floral displays will also be viewable on Sunday 20 September between 8am and 4pm.
Further information and Flower Festival competition entry forms can be found at https://ccccswindon.co.uk/page/posts/400
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