A STUDLEY church will use flower power to boost the coffers of a fundraising appeal.

St Mary's Parish Church is holding a flower festival this Saturday and Sunday as part of its 900-year birthday celebrations.

Beautiful floral displays depicting the history of the ancient building will fill the church and there will be home-baked teas on sale to visitors.

On Saturday night, a concert of 18th century church music will be held from 7.30pm onwards. Tickets are available on the door.

And visitors with a head for heights can scale the church bell tower on Sunday afternoon following a festival Holy Communion at 10.45am.

A service to round off the weekend will be held at 5pm.

All cash raised from the events will go to the Vision 900 appeal, which aims to raise £90,000 to provide the church with a modern cloakroom and a new heating system.

Vicar Richard Deimel said: "The fund has already reached £71,000 through people's hard work and generous donations. We are determined to reach the £90,000 target by December 31."

For further details, call Mr Deimel on 852830.