An East Devon village prepares to flourish as its eminent flower show makes a return this June with a new topic.

Dalwood Flower Festival will bloom once more after a four-year absence, due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, and will concentrate on 'nursery rhymes' as a theme.

Last held in 2018, the popular local event will be growing greener this summer as its venue aims to be an 'eco church' by aiming for all arrangements to be foam-free.

St Peter's Church in Dalwood, part of the East Devon Five Alive Mission Community, will be the location for the festival, with other highlights held at the village hall.

Organiser Caroline Nunns said: "We are very excited to be able to have a flower festival again as we, and our sister churches, have been unable to host one because of Covid restrictions.

"Our last event was in 2018 when the theme was 'all things bright and beautiful'. This year the theme is 'nursery rhymes' which promises to be a lot of fun.

"We are asking local businesses to sponsor an arrangement or donate raffle prizes. Local organisations are also being invited to submit an arrangement with around 30 expected.

"Funds raised will be shared between St Peter's Church and The Community Waffle House in Axminster."

The Community Waffle House was chosen after an article appeared in the local press describing the work by the group for the community over the Christmas period.

Festival-goers will be treated to an art exhibition by local artists as well as refreshments, a plant stall and raffle.

The event will run from Friday, June 30 to Sunday, July 2, 10am to 5pm, and will be rounded off by a gospel service on the Sunday evening. Entry is free but donations will be shared between the two charities.