St Giles Catholic Church in Cheadle marked its 180th anniversary with a flower festival, held across three days in early June. Organisers Liz and Janet worked with Father Eric and local historian John Smith to create the celebration, which drew visitors to see the church's architectural features and ongoing restoration work.
The flower displays were designed entirely in white to complement the ornate interior of the church, which features colour, texture and pattern throughout. This restrained palette highlighted the building's decorative elements, including windows, statues and three altars, all decorated for the festival.
Stained Glass and Bell Work
A quarter peal of the church bells marked the occasion. Information boards displayed throughout the building detailed the church's history and current conservation work, including ongoing projects on the windows and bells.
Restoration of the stained glass windows has been recently completed at a cost of £39,000. The William Wailes window, created by Newcastle-on-Tyne craftsmen, was removed for restoration and has now been fully restored.
Community Support
Guides were stationed throughout the church to answer visitors' questions. Students from nearby Painsley Catholic College assisted with cleaning and preparation. Cheadle Flower Club and ladies from the church contributed to creating the displays.
Visitors could enjoy tea and cake at the back of the church during the festival, which ran on 4th June (10am–6pm), 5th June (10am–4pm) and 6th June (12 noon–5pm).
