VILLAGERS are being invited to decorate their gate as part of a festival to mark the 750th anniversary of the founding of St Oswald’s Church in Lower Peover.

In 1269, a chapel of ease was built at Lower Peover on the site where the church now stands, by Richard Grosvenor, who lived at Hulme Hall, and this site has been a place of worship ever since.

Lower Peover is an exceptional example of a medieval oak-framed church, and is renowned for its 14th century timber framing. The nave and chancel are supported by oak pillars, braced by huge oak beams.

Throughout the four days of the festival, which runs from July 5 to 8, the church will be decorated by Knutsford Floral Design Club, which will be creating magnificent flower arrangements depicting significant dates in the history of the church.

Local organisations, the pupils of Lower Peover Church of England Primary School and The Little House Montessori Nursery will be decorating parts of the churchyard.

On Friday, July 5 at 7.30pm, a concert will be held in St Oswald’s Church. Entertainment will be provided by soprano Linda Richardson and the Warrington Male Voice Choir. For tickets see peoverchurches.org.uk

Fifty years ago, when Lower Peover celebrated 700 years since St Oswald’s Church was founded, a 7th centenary pageant about the history of the church and the village, known as the Peover Saga, was held in the grounds of St Oswald’s.

Many local people will still remember watching and being involved with the pageant. A film of the Peover Saga will be projected on screen during the ‘Celebration with Flowers’.

On Saturday, July 6, St Oswald’s will be holding the annual church fete, as usual, from 12pm.

On the morning of Sunday, July 7 at 11am there will be a special service at St Oswald’s to commemorate 750 years since it was founded.

The guest preacher will be the Reverend Canon Dr Christopher Burkett, Director of Ministry, Diocese of Chester.

Refreshments will be available throughout the ‘Celebration with Flowers’ festival.

As part of this event, residents living in the parish have been invited to ‘decorate a gate’, during June. This will include decorations with plants, bunting, ribbons and lights.

So, come along to see all the decorated gates and join in the festivities. For further information visit peoverchurches.org.uk.