Angels from the fifteenth century will gaze down on their twenty first century counterparts when Wymondham Abbey Flower Festival opens on July 18.“For All the Saints, the title for this festival, has been inspired not only by the words of the well known hymn, but by some of the saints depicted on the screen and around the font,” said festival designer, Doris Waymark.

Angels from the fifteenth century will gaze down on their twenty first century counterparts when Wymondham Abbey Flower Festival opens on July 18.

“For All the Saints, the title for this festival, has been inspired not only by the words of the well known hymn, but by some of the saints depicted on the screen and around the font,” said festival designer, Doris Waymark. The new angels are in recognition and with grateful thanks for the donations so generously given by local benefactors and businesses, who wished to become “Abbey Angels”. Designed by Jennifer Walters of Norwich Flower Club, the angels will fly high among the Romanesque arches over 73 stunning floral displays.

The flower festival marks the re-launch of a major campaign to build modern amenities at the Abbey. “No one would dispute that our facilities are woefully inadequate for such a glorious and much visited building,” said Canon Christopher Davies, the Vicar of Wymondham. “The improvements we hope to make will be of real benefit to the whole community.”

The festivities which spread over a 3 day period include a preview party (tickets £10 from Mike Halls 01953 605040) to be opened by Richard Bacon M.P. on Thursday 16th July from 7-9pm.

Wymondham Lions are organizing a churchyard fair on Saturday 18th July and that evening a concert takes place in the Abbey. “Summer Serenade” by Phoenix Voice a quartet accompanied by their pianist, promises “A musical tour of summer flowers and summer holidays”. Tickets, including wine and canapés (kindly sponsored by Waitrose) are available from Geo.R.Reeve Ltd. Damgate Corner, Wymondham.

Bell ringing and organ recitals can be heard throughout the festival which is open from 10 - 6 on 18th and 19th July and from 10 - 6 on 20th July. Tickets at the door £5 (concessions £4 and children under l8 free of charge).

Refreshments available in Abbey Hall during festival hours.

For coach party information call Maureen on 01953 606661