Blooms and Tunes in Duns Tew

We are hugely grateful to Jo Lilley for orchestrating our Blooms and Tunes festival over the August Bank Holiday. Her initial idea burgeoned into a superbly joyful floral and musical extravaganza over the three afternoons.

Duns Tew Church was filled with 17 beautiful floral displays representing Duns Tew life through the year. From a striking display on the altar for ‘Christmas’, ‘Easter’ in the font, ‘Tug-of-War’ around the pulpit and a huge variety of window displays from ‘Fete’ to ‘Wildlife’ and all the village clubs and societies in between. For photos of the flower displays, see below.

The beautiful setting of the flowers in the church was enhanced by a full programme of music from talented local musicians. Choirs, organists, folk musicians and classical musicians and singers all provided a magical atmosphere that was appreciated by all the visitors.

Our Rector , Jane, and organist, Fran, playing a duet

A taste of the range of wonderful music on offer

Delicious refreshments were served in the churchyard and thankfully the weather held! All this helped to raise just under £2000 which was split between Duns Tew church and the Disasters Emergency Committee.

Special thanks to all our sponsors and visitors, without whom none of this would have been possible.

Jo Lilley, Alison Day, Clare Burgess

Just some of the comments from our lovely visitors:

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What an amazing weekend it's been! The church looked absolutely beautiful, the music was super and the cakes delicious. I'm really pleased it was supported by so many visitors and locals alike, all of whom were obviously enjoying themselves. A huge success!

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We've just arrived home and we've had the best afternoon. Thank you so much to everybody involved. We arrived early and parked at the village hall as you advised. Ate our picnic and went for a walk. Had coffee at the White Horse (may be back for a meal soon!). The flower arrangements were beautiful, as was the music especially young Alexandra & Seraphina playing their violins. Even the artwork on the programme was lovely. The tea and cakes were delicious and fresh flowers on the tables appreciated. Everyone was very friendly too. It is such a good idea to combine flowers and music. It worked really well and hopefully raises lots of money. What a lovely village you live in.

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The number of compliments I overheard was just staggering and I think you should all give yourselves a huge pat on the back.

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Wildlife by Jayne Wilesmith

Tug of War by Alison Day and Susan Birks

The Tug of War Cup (Annual Competition between North Aston and Duns Tew) - Duns Tew being this year's winners!

Summer Wedding by Emma O'Farrell

Sustainable Duns Tew by Jo and Abigail Lilley

Ride and Stride by Alison Day

Garden Club by Jo Lilley

Family@church by Jo and Abigail Lilley, with help from the children at Dr Radcliffe's Primary School, Steeple Aston, and Middle Barton Primary School