CHILDREN’S classic Alice in Wonderland will come to life in a spectacular of flowers at St Mary’s Church in Old Malton next week.

The festival has been organised by representatives of the church and its flower group, along with Malton and District Flower Club.

Funding has been provided by Malton CIC which donated £250 towards the festival, with other donations made by the Earl Fitzwilliam Charitable Trust and a number of local businesses.

Fiona Foley-Croft, one of the organisers, said Alice in Wonderland had been a wonderful inspiration.

“The children’s classic is enjoyed by readers of all ages and our flower experts will be hard at work creating the Rabbit’s House, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and the Mock Turtle, to name but a few,” she added.

“There will also be some surprises in store as well.”

Other attractions include a White Rabbit Trail from the church to the community centre, guided tours of St Mary’s by Canon John Manchester, traditional weaving demonstrations and refreshments.

The event will be held in the church and grounds and in the Priory Community Centre from July 19-21, 10am-7pm on Friday and Saturday, and 1pm-6pm on Sunday.

There will be a ticketed preview evening on Thursday, July 18 from 6.45pm, during which Lady Westbury will officially open the event.

Entry to the festival is free, with donations welcome. Brochures will be on sale at £3 each.

All funds raised will go towards the future renovation of the historic St Mary’s Church.

Tickets for the evening preview event are available from Malton Tourist Information Centre in St Michael’s Street, or by phoning Kath Taylor on 01653 692601.