THERE were many colourful displays in St James the Great Church, Kilkhampton, when the traditional Flower Festival was held over the weekend of July 24 and 25.

The church decided it was more appropriate to hold an outdoor Flower Festival this year over the weekend of the Patronal Festival of St James the Great. The theme was ‘Something Different’ and the stunning displays started at the lychgate and from then on were situated in various positions in the churchyard and church grounds. Thankfully, despite poor weather forecasts the weather remained favourable and a large number of people came and went over the course of Saturday and Sunday with the Saturday being the annual gift day, monetary gifts were handed in at the gate for church funds. Thanks were expressed to churchwardens and members of the church for manning the gate throughout. Afternoon teas were available both afternoons and grateful thanks were expressed to those responsible for baking such delicious food and those who served the tables both inside and outside of the church.

A spokesperson said: “Everyone worked hard to produce their displays, and there was the usual great sense of community throughout the weekend. Concerns about the weather on Saturday morning proved to be unfounded, as the sun appeared, and shone for the rest of the festival, allowing people to enjoy their cream teas outside, and to socialise safely. Bude Ukelele Band entertained on Saturday afternoon, and were much appreciated by all. The churchyard looked immaculate, and was a lovely backdrop to the displays.”

They added: “The organisers wish to thank everyone who took part, or helped in any way, to make the weekend a success. It was ‘Something Different’ to hold the festival outside, and we are delighted that it all went so well.”

The gifted flower arrangers of the beautiful arrangements were Valerie Shadrick, John Cleave, Jeannette Norman, Jennie Siddalls, Vinnie James -Layla and Lilly, Janice Dickerson, Joan Sillifant, Sally Strong, Ladies of the Methodist Chapel, Lyn Whalley, Heather Thomas, Helen Collier, Lesley Heard, Hannah Metherell, Jenny Carey, Yvonne Chidley, Catherine Cann, Helen Bond, Holly Trayford, Helen Hoare and the Junior and Infant School.

On the Sunday morning at 11am, a very special ‘Jimmy’s Day Songs of Praise’ was held. Kingsley Bryant, vice chairman of the parish council, welcomed Colonel Edward Bolitho Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall at the lychgate and churchwarden Kevin McGrath welcomed Col Bolitho on behalf of the Church of St James the Great. On entry to church, Mr Bryant asked the congregation to stand, welcomed the Lord Lieutenant and Pauline Giles, chair of Cornwall Council, and chaperoned them to their seats. James Stacey was the Union standard bearer. Hearty singing of hymns was led by Bude Metric Brass Band conducted by Colin Gay and with Brenda Luxton playing the organ. The service was led by Richard Painter of Morwenstow, assisted by Rev Richard Ward-Smith. The guest soloist was Mark Rosser who sang ‘Be still, for the presence of the Lord’. The lesson was read by churchwarden Mr McGrath. The chair of Cornwall Council listed the major contribution Luke Francis has played in the life of the community for many years. Playing the church organs at both Morwenstow and Kilkhampton from a young age, becoming a postman and then becoming Head Post Master of Bude General Post Office, which delivered to those shielding during the pandemic, producing the KATS Pantomime, as well as many other contributions and parts he has played in the life of the community. Col Bolitho then presented Luke with the British Empire Medal on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen and thanked him for all he has done and continues to do. The service concluded with the National Anthem, before processing out. There was a retiring collection and all money raised over the weekend were for church funds. Thanks were given to all who donated and to all those who helped in any way.