by Lorraine Gibson.
After seven long years, the Wimborne Flower Festival will take place in the Minster Church.
It marks the 900th anniversary of original parts of the church and foundations, some of which date back to AD705.
Designer Sharon Austin, owner of Carnival Flowers in the town, has been working with the Minster’s florists to ensure the event will be a visual – and olfactory – sensation.
Along with stunning tableaux, there will be beautiful floral arrangements, depicting the theme Trades, Past And Present.
“I first conceived the idea five years ago,” says Sharon from Corfe Mullen.
“We are portraying so many trades that every colour will be used. We have amazing props, including a beautiful vintage car.”
In a heartening example of community spirit, other flower clubs from across the county, and one from Hampshire, will join the Minster’s arrangers to create the fantasy.
The festival is particularly close to Sharon’s heart, as it’s raising funds for local charities, including the Forest Holme Hospice, which supported her husband before he died.
“My gorgeous husband, Guy, died in Forest Holme in 2017. He had been diagnosed with stage-four bowel cancer five months previously,” says Sharon. “He was my best friend, my Saturday driver, my most ardent supporter and the kindest, amazing person. He was witty, clever and loved music.”
Sharon also credits him with enabling her to realise her vision. “His support allowed me to fulfil my dream of opening my florist.”
A florist for almost 20 years, she poignantly compares Guy to his favourite blossom. “Cornflowers. Not too showy but, without meaning to, they steal the show and get on well with every other flower in the garden.”
Although nervous after the long break, Sharon’s also excited and feeling proud of the flower festival and Carnival Flowers teams who’ve been incredibly supportive.
“I really want people to come and enjoy our festival. It may not be the biggest or best in the world but it’s from the heart and in these tough times we all need support like never before.”
“The Right Reverend Stephen Lake, the new Bishop of Salisbury will preside and preach at the 9.30am Parish Eucharist and dedicate the rebuilt Minster Organ.”
Local artist Andrea Hook has donated her latest original work, Wimborne Model Town, as a raffle prize. It will be on show at Carnival Florists and tickets can be bought there or at the show itself.
Proceeds are being split between Forest Holme Hospice, the Minster, and Wimborne Model Town.
Sonnaz Nooranvary, who is the resident upholstery expert on BBC One’s ‘The Repair Shop’, will be opening the Wimborne Flower Festival at 11am on Friday, September 2.
The British-Iranian TV personality hails from Pamphill and became interested in upholstery after dropping out of studying Law at university and regularly features on the popular show.
The must-see festival runs from Friday to Monday, September 2 to 5.
Entrance charge £5, children free.
Find out more at wimborneminster.org.uk and MinsterMakesMusic.co.uk.