THE Flower Festival held at St Michael’s church in Bude saw a celebration of the Queen’s 90th birthday, writes Sandra Huffer.

Held on the weekend of Friday, June 24, until Sunday, June 26, all aspects of the Queen’s reign and life were depicted in the exhibits, with 23 displays from the many groups, churches and clubs in the local area.

The path to the church was lined with flowery pink hanging baskets, and the porch looked absolutely delightful with ‘The Changing of the Guard’.

Here, there were two sentry boxes with soldiers on guard, a line of soldiers on parade, and a Buckingham Palace balcony scene, with the entire Royal Family looking out.

On entering the church, visitors were met with the lovely smell and bright colours of the living arrangements, with the high windowsills decorated with different coloured hats and flowers so reminiscent of the Queen.

Displays down both sides of the aisle on the end of pews were as varied as the life of the Queen, including pearls, posies, the Christmas Message, the Silver Jubilee in Truro, a 21st Birthday in Cape Town, as well as a Cake for her 90th birthday.

The many visits to the Royal Variety Performance and her love of horses were not forgotten. There was the Commonwealth, the Caribbean and New Zealand.

There were also cakes that looked edible in the display, with the theme of Royal Garden Parties.

The role of the Queen as Defender of the Faith was remembered, as were her many attendances at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Day, and last but not least the National Anthem; all in all it was a really Royal affair.

The church was abuzz with people; some who were on holiday, some from abroad, a couple from Plymouth who came especially by bus, and of course many local people.

The tables at the back of the church were busy with people enjoying delicious sandwiches, cakes and teas.

The festival came to an end with Songs of Praise on the Sunday evening. Bude Town Band played rousing hymns and there were poems, readings and stories on the life of the Queen, that were presented by members of the church.

Thanks have been expressed to all who supported St Michael’s over the weekend, and to all who contributed by arranging and supplying flowers, providing refreshments and helping in so many ways.

It was a really enjoyable weekend and we are delighted to say that over £1,500 was raised for church funds.