Aylsham to remember war dead through flowers

Over 60 young men from Aylsham lost their lives during the Great War of 1914 – 1918.  The two War Memorials, one inside and one outside the Church, record their names.

In this, the centenary of the start of the First World War, they will be remembered through a Flower Festival 23^rd-26^th May, 10am-5pm.

Each of the local talented arrangers has researched a specific aspect of the First World War, to create stunning displays reflecting on conflict or peace.

The Aylsham Parish Church Flower Festival promises to be an emotional showcase for the talents of the local community, as many of the arrangers will be sharing personal stories or memorabilia.  The atmosphere of the Medieval Parish Church will be further enhanced by a selection of music also reflecting on the theme War and Peace played by local pianists and organists.

An interactive children’s trail will help children explore not only the history of the Church, but also some of the key people whose endeavours during the First World War have helped shape the world today.

Local school children from St Michael’s Infant and John of Gaunt Infant Schools have also taken part, creating Peace Doves and Poppies that will form part of some of the displays in Church.

The Festival will be opened at a special preview evening by the Right Rev’d Jonathan Meyrick, Bishop of Lynn, and former hostage John McCarthy.  The Bishop and Mr McCarthy will be “in conversation” later that evening in the Church at an event which forms part of the Aylsham Festival.  Tickets available from  http://www.aylshamfestival.ticketsource.co.uk/

Revd Andrew Beane, Vicar of Aylsham said “I have been staggered by the interest that has been created through the Flower Festival about how World War One has touched each of our lives and in ways we perhaps never considered.  I am sure that the Festival  will create a place for reflection, taking us from the horror of war to the hope of peace as we remember those who died in conflicts over the years and those still today affected by war, especially from post-traumatic stress.”