A TEESDALE church has been in full bloom this weekend (May 22 to 25) after their flower festival was inspired by women of faith.

St Mary’s Church, in Staindrop, was brought to life with floral displays motivated by 23 different women of faith with everyone from Florence Nightingale to the Queen being represented.

Historical figures included Queen Elizabeth I, Mary Magdalene and Joan of Arc, while displays also paid tribute to more modern women including Mary Butterwick, founder of the Butterwick Hospice, Mother Teresa and Marie Curie.

Organiser and vicar’s wife, Mary Steventon, said she had the idea for the festival, which happens every four years, after Libby Lane was made the first female Church of England bishop in January.

“I thought it would be nice to celebrate women and their contribution to the church as well as to our national life as a result of Libby Lane becoming a bishop,” Mrs Steventon said.

“We did think of lots of saints but we also thought of lots of contemporary women too.”

Mrs Steventon also praised all of the ladies involved in the event and said all proceeds would be going towards some big projects for the church including building a toilet and meeting area.

“I think they’re brilliant, they have done us proud,” she added.

The festival will run until 4pm tomorrow (May 25).