Tiny community is ready to bloom (From Free Press Series)

Tiny community is ready to bloom

THE smallest parish in Monmouthshire is holding its first flower festival.

The parish of Llansantffraed, between Abergavenny and Raglan, consists of only 290 acres and just 20 residents, which includes the last baby born there.

The church of St Bridget is situated off the old Raglan road, on the entrance road to the Llansantffraed Hotel, and dates back to the 14th century.

It was said to be the seat and estate of Sir John Morley in the 14th century and memorials to various members of the family can be seen on the walls of the chancel and nave.

Among the many interesting things to see inside the church is the font with its bowl dating from Norman times, and two alabaster panels which are set into the wall either side of the east window.

These still show traces of the bright mediaeval colours with which they were once painted, and depict the burial and resurrection of Jesus.

The parish includes the hotel, a farm and four cottages, but its boundary excludes the lodge at the entrance from the main road, which is in the parish of Llanarth.

The rector, the Rev Michael Sadler is also responsible for three other churches, St David's, Llanddewi Rhydderch, St Cadoc's, The Bryn and St Teilo's Llanarth.

On the first Sunday of the month he conducts a group service at each of the four churches in rotation, evening prayer at 3pm is held on the second Sunday, morning prayer at 10am on the third and Holy Communion at 6pm on the fourth.

When there are five Sundays in the month the congregation organise and run an informal service which is proving to be a great success.

The flower festival was the idea of Parochial Church Council member Colin Jarrett and organist Jean Smith.

The displays will depict the patronal saints of the four churches, the national saints, the resurrection and crucifixion and one representing the Mothers' Union.

There will be a preview at the Llansantffraed Hotel on Thursday, April 29, with the church open to the public on Friday and Saturday between 10am and 7pm and on Sunday (May 2) from 11.30am to 6pm.

Tickets for the buffet cost £10 and admission to the festival costs £3. Tickets and programmes are available by ringing 01873 840043 or contacting any member of the PCC.