A coronation flower festival in the new community space at St Peter’s Church in Ropley raised £5,000 for its churchyard lighting and pathways appeal.

It opened with fizz and canapés for 100 guests who enjoyed 29 displays by local residents, organisations and gardening clubs depicting the UK countries, coronation regalia, royal homes, the King’s interests and the Commonwealth.

The festival also included a coronation celebration service on May 7 attended by 220 adults and children. Led by vicar Revd Clare Welham, with Bishop David Williams of Basingstoke, it featured the Ropley Coronation Choir singing The Mountains Shall Bring Peace and a choir from Ropley CE Primary School.