Residents will descend on Coggeshall for the return of the town’s popular flower festival.

The 31st edition of the annual event takes place from Saturday, August 25, to Tuesday, August 28, at St Peter ad Vincula church, in Church Green.

This year, displays across the church will reflect stories of the lives of saints like St John the Baptist, St Goerge and St Osyth.

St Peter’s has a well-deserved reputation for their outstanding flower festivals and preparations have been ongoing since the start of the year.

A total of 35 flower arrangers will work over four days putting the festival together, creating more than 140 arrangements.

There are also music recitals in the church on Saturday and Sunday.

The Frog Island Jazz Band will be performing on Saturday, from 7.30pm, with tickets costing £12 full price and £10 for concessions.

On Sunday there is a Songs of Praise style service from 5.15pm.

Homemade cakes and light lunches will be available across the festival and there is a preserve and produce stand for shoppers.

Entry is free of charge, although donations are welcomed towards the upkeep of the church.

Last year, around 2,200 people attended from Essex and further afield.

Visit www.coggeshallflowerfestival.org.uk.