THE first ever Flower Festival at St Thomas' Church in Charlton was a resounding success.

More than 80 people helped with flower arrangements, more than 500 people visited the festival over the weekend and more than £1,140 was raised for local charities.

There were 17 flower displays made by groups from the Andover area, including the three St Michael and All Angels' Churches in Andover, Charlton and Weyhill, St Mary's Church in Andover, Andover Flower Club, Andover Methodist Church, Charlton WI, 1st Charlton Rainbows, 9th Andover Brownies and Councillor Pat West.

The Rev Jill Bentall said: "The flower displays were absolutely fantastic."

Coincidentally, the arrangements on the south of the church were made using yellow and pink flowers and the arrangement on the north side of the building were made using bright and vibrant coloured flowers.

Jill said: "It looked as if someone had had this tremendous plan."

The funds raised will be split between the Dale Trust, the Crisis Centre and Bridges International.