A FLOWER festival has raised more than £2,000 towards refurbishing a church in Farnworth.

St John's Church Bible Stories Flower Festival, held from Thursday to Sunday, had 26 different flower displays depicting stories from the Bible.

Jonah and The Whale, Moses in the Bulrushes, The Garden of Eden and Noah’s Ark were just some of stories through flowers that visitors could enjoy.

With craft stalls, a tombola and refreshments on offer throughout the weekend, organisers say the total amount raised was much more than was expected.

One of organisers Steph Buckley, 32, said: “I would just like to say a massive thanks to everyone who came and donated their hard-earned cash.

“Lots of people came to show their support over the weekend and all the proceeds will help massively towards the church.

“We don’t know the final total raised yet but it is well over £2,000.

"The money will go to general refurbishments in the church."

With the weather holding out over the three days, especially on Saturday, Ms Buckley, from Railway Street, Farnworth, said that more than 300 people came to visit.

She said: “We did lots of marketing and promoting this event and it seems to have paid off.

“More people came to see the displays and to provide their support so overall the hard work was definitely worthwhile.”

The event was only made possible after several sponsors helped the cause.

A number of people from the church congregation, along with three primary schools- St Peter’s, All Saints and St John’s- had their own displays on show and Bolton Floral Art Group helped to co-ordinate the event.

Ms Buckley said: “We couldn’t have down it without the help of lots of people who have helped us to plan this event for the last 12 months.

“I would like to give a special mention to Bolton Floral Art Group who have contributed greatly.”

She added that it is unlikely that the event will be an annual occurrence as lots of work goes into preparations.

She added: “Churches usually do this kind of thing every few years.”