The annual Guestling Church Flower Festival was held on August 17, 18 and 19 at St Laurence Church Guestling.
The theme this year was Observer Books, which gave free rein to the artistic flair and imagination of all those who entered their displays. This proved to be fertile ground. With 36 entries, ranging from Butterflies to the Weather, stopping off at Cricket and Insects and many, many more subjects, the church was a delight to see, with blooms and humour in abundance.
There was a gentle air of activity and enjoyment as visitors strolled around the church admiring the floral displays and at times were treated to the soft sound of the church organ being played by Val Gibbs.
Having admired the floral delights, I took advantage of the food on offer and chose a very nice ham cheese and quiche salad followed by a lovely piece of home made plum pie and clotted cream. I enjoyed this outside in the churchyard while admiring the view over to Fairlight Church in the distance. While in the churchyard, I spent some looking over the various stalls offering bric a brac, jams, produce, and a tombola stall.
The occasional spells of light drizzle were not enough to dampen the spirits of the many visitors and the event raised the very healthy sum of £3,415. This will go to the church restoration fund. As usual, a very dedicated and hard working band of helpers gave of their time to make this happen. Special thanks must go to Rosemary Gainsbury who has organised this event for the last 30 years and is now stepping down. She will be sorely missed. I look forward to enjoying this very English event next year.
Photos: David Hance