A SPECTACULAR week-long summer festival is being held at Tavistock Parish Church next month to celebrate its landmark 700-year anniversary.

Between Friday, June 8 and Thursday, June 14, the church of St Eustachius’ opens its doors to showcase its life of times past, the present and the future. Fascinating displays, set amongst themed floral arrangements, will include rarely seen silver, clerical vestments, historical photographs, parish records and glimpses of parishioners’ memories.

Visitors will be able to peep behind the scenes at what the various church groups do, from the choir, the prayer groups, The Brass Band and Holy Dusters, to Messy Church, the social committee, the Friends of St Eustachius’ and ‘Open the Book’.

Of particular interest will be the fabric committee stand, which will illustrate the team’s invaluable role in maintaining the building. There will an opportunity to make your mark on Tavistock’s heritage by sponsoring and signing a slate for the new vestry roof, which once completed will act as a time capsule for years to come.

Contributing to the flower displays include Tavistock Flower Club, Tavistock Church Schools’ Federation, Gulworthy Church, Gulworthy and Tavistock WI and Tamar Valley Club.

Vicar of St Eustachius’, the Very Rev Dr Chris Hardwick, said: ‘This promises to be a wonderful summer festival celebrating the vibrant life of St Eustachius’ Church in Tavistock over the past 700 years.

‘It represents a rare opportunity to learn more about the church, its history and antiquities and to see the church at its most beautiful during our anniversary celebrations.’

Joint organiser Pam Hunter added: ‘The festival is to celebrate our 700 years of life in the church by showing things not always visible to visitors (or the congregation) on an average Sunday, also to show how various groups carry out their ministry.

‘Above all, it will celebrate the faith, fellowship and fun that is St. Eustachius’ and we hope will be in the future.’

The church will be open daily from 9.30am to 4.30pm, except Wednesday and Sunday, 11.30am to 4.30pm. Admission is £1.