Celebrity speakers including playwright Alan Bennett are rallying round to help a fundraising appeal at a Peak District church.
St Peter's Church at Edensor has organised a Floral Fanfare in December, featuring spectacular flower arrangements by Darley Dale florist Robert Young, together with a packed programme of talks and concerts.
The week-long festival at the picturesque village on the Chatsworth estate runs from December 5 to 11.
The Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, who lives at Edensor, said: "This will be a unique event. I do hope many people will be able to visit to enjoy the magnificent floral arrangements and the evening events." Visitors will be able to spend an evening with award-winning playwright Alan Bennett on Friday, December 11.
Earlier in the week, Adam Nicolson, grandson of writer Vita Sackville-West and politician Harold Nicolson, will talk about his home at Sissinghurst Castle in Kent, while the Dowager Duchess will be in conversation on another evening. In addition, there will be festive concerts by Siân Hicks, who plays double bass with the Northern Sinfonia, Matlock Band and Bakewell Band.
The church, designed in 1867 by Sir George Gilbert Scott, is regarded as one of the most handsome Victorian churches in Derbyshire. During the Floral Fanfare, it will be decorated with flowers and lights, following a winter wonderland theme.
Robert Young said: "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to decorate this remarkable historic church. "It is an unusual time of year for such a festival and it will be a very ambitious display."
The vicar of Edensor, Rev David Garnett, said: "This will be a fun and inspiring way to ensure the future of our church, as well as helping three very worthy charities which have strong links with the parish.''
Proceeds will help buy electrics for the church and renovate its organ, with donations going to Ashgate Hospice, the Alzheimer's Society and Bishop Hilary's Immanuel Kindergarten in Sudan.
The church will be open every day from 10.30am to 5.30pm. Light refreshments will also be available from 11am-4pm daily. There will be an entrance fee to the flower festival but no charge for children.
For further details contact Duncan Gordon on 01629 734099 or Elizabeth Bradshaw on 01246 582421. Get tickets by calling 07929098715
| 
