THE Bank Holiday flower festival at St Peter's Church, Roydon, attracted thousands of people who enjoyed floral displays, competitions and music events.

The festival celebrated God's bountiful gifts, with arrangements depicting all things bright and beautiful, green pastures and the resurrection.

The crowds enjoyed an array of entertainment on Saturday including stalls, sideshows and an exhibition of vintage cars.

In the evening traditional jazz group the Stackyard Stompers entertained a packed audience.

Winners of the inaugural tug-of-war event were the Craner's Produces' Fruit Team, who bested parents representing the Busy Bees nursery group. Celebrity hardman Ray Winstone's Crusader Pub team came third.

The Monday night finale was also a success which included a hog roast and a sell-out performance by local group Ex-Vincula.

St Peter's Flower Festival Committee chairman Richard Greenhill expected proceeds to better the £7,000 raised two years ago.

He said: "It went super well, the weather was kind to us and many commented it was the best festival they had attended.

"Many visitors who hadn't previously visited the church said they wanted to help and are keen to attend. The event really has been a community festival."