THOUSANDS of residents are set to descend on Coggeshall for the return of the village’s popular flower festival.

The anniversary edition of the event is promising a packed programme of activities that will create a buzz around the town. This year marks the 30th edition of the popular event, organised by St Peter ad Vincula, the parish church.

Between Saturday, August 26, and Tuesday, Augustu 29, there will be displays across the church grounds.

The theme for this year’s event is to be The Life of Christ and the organisers have created a floral interpretation of Bible stories from Jesus’ life.

St Peter’s has established a well-deserved reputation for outstanding flower festivals over the years and preparations for this year’s event began way back in January.

A massive 37 dedicated flower arrangers will work over four days to put the festival together, creating a whopping 140 arrangements in just 28 displays. There is also a programme of musical performances.

On Saturday Martin Dobson will be performing his Midnight Oil. A laid back jazz concert sure to please lovers of the genre. Tickets cost £12.

On Sunday there will be a Sung Eucharist services from 10.30am and a Songs of Praise style service later at 5.15pm. Entrance to both service is free.

Delicious homemade cakes and light lunches will be available in the church for the duration of the festival.

A stall selling the popular preserves and food will be returning again to delight those after some quality produce from the area.

Entry is free of charge, although donations towards the upkeep of the church are welcomed. Last year more than 2,000 people passed through throughout the four days from all over Essex and much further afield.

The festival is open 10am until 5pm on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday and from 11.45am until 5pm on Sunday. Visit coggeshallflowerfestival.org.uk.