Floral glory at Llandaff Cathedral

The most spectacular flower festival in South Wales this year is about to begin.
More than 200 flower arrangers – from Haverfordwest to Hereford - are preparing to transform Llandaff Cathedral into a blaze of floral glory to celebrate a golden anniversary.

The magnificent building will be bursting with 101 breathtaking arrangements and displays, both traditional and modern, as it hosts the Golden Heritage Festival of Flowers.

The exciting floral designs will shower the whole Cathedral in gold – from the renowned Majestas sculpture and the stunning new organ to ancient caskets, sparkling stained glass windows and historic oak chests.

They will be a labour of love by members of the Three Counties and South Wales branch of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. It will be a joint celebration as the event will also mark the 50th anniversary of the Queen’s visit and rededication of Llandaff Cathedral in 1960, following its extensive reconstruction from bomb damage in 1941.

The Dean of Llandaff, the Very Rev John Lewis, said the three-day festival, which has been two years in the planning, would showcase the talents of the army of volunteers who decorate churches week by week.

He said, “We are delighted that Llandaff Cathedral is hosting this wonderful event. It is truly a celebration of the gifts of all those hundreds of people who devote hours of their time in churches across the land every week. The displays they so lovingly create enhance our worship by reminding us of the beauty of God’s creation."

Andrew Lloyd, area chairman of the Three Counties and South Wales branch of NAFAS, said, “We are delighted to be taking part in the Golden Heritage Festival of Flowers at Llandaff Cathedral.

"Throughout the centuries, flowers have been used to decorate and enhance the beauty of this ancient building. This event promises to be a spectacular demonstration of the art of floral design and will be a magnificent accolade in the Area's 50th year celebrations."

The event will be held on August 5-7. There will be a gala preview evening and champagne reception - open to all by ticket - on Wednesday 4 August at 7pm and then opening hours for individuals and coach parties are Thursday 5th to Saturday 7th August between 10am and 5.30pm. All donations will go towards the £1.5m Cathedral Organ Appeal.

On the web: www.ticketsource.co.uk/llandaffcathedral