A north Suffolk church was transformed as a popular annual event made a welcome return.

Having raised thousands of pounds over the years and always attracted a fine turnout, organisers of the annual flower festival at St Mary's Church in Somerleyton have hailed its success.

Lowestoft Journal: Somerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick HowesSomerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Just a day after the first anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth II - who died aged 96 at Balmoral Castle on September 8 last year after 70 years on the throne – the flower festival commemorated her passing.

Lowestoft Journal: Somerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick HowesSomerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

The sun shone brightly as the annual flower festival at St Mary's, Somerleyton near Lowestoft was held two weekends ago.

Many visitors came to appreciate the talents illustrated by the Lowestoft and Bradwell Flower Clubs in interpreting the theme of 'Kings & Queens.'

Lowestoft Journal: Somerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick HowesSomerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

As well as Queen Elizabeth II other royalty featured included King Alfred, King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Victoria, Pearly King & Queen, King John & Robin Hood, King of Spain, King of the school prom, our present King Charles III, the Queen of Hearts to the chess pieces at the entrance of the church, the church was resplendent in royal and golden colours - with the altar dedicated to Jesus, the King of Kings.

Lowestoft Journal: Somerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick HowesSomerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Somerleyton Primary School and the Pre-School also provided creative exhibits.

Churchwarden Mary Truman said: "The marquee was busy serving delicious cakes and teas and because the weather was so good, families, friends and visitors enjoyed precious moments under the trees listening to Tony Jones with his guitar whilst overlooking the Somerleyton Estate.

Lowestoft Journal: Somerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick HowesSomerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"Over £100 was collected for cancer research in memory of Beryl Capps - a former exhibitor - by her daughter Julie who was selling items from her home and other stalls were busy selling bric-a-brac and books.

Lowestoft Journal: Somerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick HowesSomerleyton Church flower festival 2023. Picture Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"We love to welcome old and new visitors to our church and thank all who supported our festival as over £2,200 was raised for church funds."