St Mary's Church, Woodham Ferrers, is to celebrate the new millennium with a week-long festival starting on Sunday.

A yew tree will be planted during a service of celebration at 11.15am.

Throughout the week, the church will be open from 10am to 4pm with flower arrangements by local organisations and a display of work by local artist Rob Brown.

A children's celebration is planned for June 29. with the pupils of St Mary's School leading a service in the afternoon.

At 7.30pm, the church welcomes local group Choirwood -- tickets available from Capricorn Video, priced £5.

On July 1, the gardens of the Old Barn, Woodham Ferrers, will be open to the public.

The celebration culminates on July 2, with a songs of praise service at 6pm, during which a commemorative stained glass window will be unveiled.

Priest-in-charge the Rev Mary Cottee said: "St Mary's Church enjoys a unique relationship not only with the parishioners of Woodham Ferrers and Bicknacre, but also with many of the residents of South Woodham Ferrers.

"We think our festival has something for everyone and we look forward to welcoming old friends and meeting new ones."

For more information on events, call John or Jenny on 01245 328149.

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