| The annual Flower Festival, together with its associated
dinner dance and fete, is a highlight of Stock's calendar. The events might be
perceived as quintessentially English, yet are a combination of fund-raising
and fun that very few villages could match in the new millennium. |
| The festival falls on the weekend nearest to midsummer's
day, with the Friday night dinner dance starting the celebrations in a marquee
on the glebe next to the church - many wearing fancy dress. True to festival
traditions, standards are amazingly high and competition is fierce yet
good-humoured. |
| On Saturday morning volunteers lift the stage and dance
floor for the marquee's conversion to a tea tent with space for craft stalls
and racks of nearly-new clothing. The Fete starts at 2pm, outside attractions
will range from the genteel tombola and cake and book stalls, through to the
more active trolley slides and penalty shoot-outs. Arena attractions may
include vintage cars, Morris men and country dancing from the village
schoolchildren. |
| A few yards away from the hustle is the inspirational calm
of the ancient church decorated with a wide range flower displays. Hundreds of
blooms are arranged to a standard that amaze and delight visitors who return
year after year. |
| The Sunday is kept as our Dedication Festival and the
10.15am service is always a joyous celebration Afterwards, back in the marquee,
the children entertain with a short piece of drama and music. |
| It is a weekend that proves a community spirit flourishes
in Stock - and that the congregation of All Saints' Church knows how to have a
good time! |
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