Delia Smith and Lord Nelson are just two of the Norfolk heroes celebrated at a flower festival in Thurton.

The three-day event, held at St Ethelbert’s Church, drew in the crowds as people came to see floral displays created by local people which acknowledged heroes from the county.

“It went off beautifully and everyone had lovely remarks about the festival,” said Irene O’Neil, who is a member of the committee of the Friends of Thurton Church.

“It was well attended on all three days. I was really amazed at the number of people that turned up. There was a constant stream of people and they had glowing things to say.”

Displays also recognised Colman’s, Jarrold and landscape artist John Crome.

Jan Whitehouse - also a committee member - said the festival, held last Friday, Saturday and Sunday, has raised nearly £1,000 which will go towards the upkeep of the Grade I listed Norman building.

Ms Whitehouse said: “It’s brilliant the amount we have raised. We took over £650 in donations and programme sales and then we had refreshments on sale at Thurton Hall.

“It’s been a lot of hard work but the arrangements were absolutely gorgeous. We had a service on Sunday night to celebrate and it was a good end to the festival.”