A flower festival with a difference

Borley Church

Over the weekend of Saturday and Sunday 22^nd and 23^rd June there will be a flower festival with a difference at Borley Church, just over the border into Essex.

The theme of the festival will be ‘A country garden wedding’ and, in addition to floral displays, wedding dresses dating from 1948 to the present day will be on show.  The organisers are also hoping to locate some photographs of weddings from the time of World War ll .  Perhaps you may be able to help?

The Church is an interesting one, with Saxon roots.  It has connections with Thomas Gainsborough.  His mother’s brother, Humphrey Burrough, was rector here between 1727 and 1738 and he has a memorial in front of the altar. He was the headmaster at Sudbury Grammar School, which was attended by the young artist.  His son, Nathanial, was a high class grocer in London who later retired to Sudbury and built the first Belle Vue House..

The Church is very much ‘on the map’ for those who like ghost hunting, since there is a long history of strange sightings at the church and the nearby formerly rectory (now demolished).

On Saturday between 11 a.m. and 5.30 tea and cakes will be available in the village hall.  The Church only will be open between 2 and 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Proceeds will go towards the restoration of the church roof.