THE Severnside Support Group of St Peter’s Hospice will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a fundraising flower festival.


The group, which formed in 1985, supports the Bristol hospice and has raised over £330,000 over the years through a variety of fundraising events in Thornbury and surrounding areas.


To mark its 30th year, the group, made up of ten committee members and more volunteers, is hosting a three-day flower festival with the theme of ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’.


Chairman Kath Burgess, who is based in Thornbury, said the group celebrated the hospice’s 30th birthday with a flower festival seven years ago, and wanted to resurrect the idea.


“We thought it would nice to do the same sort of thing, with us now turning 30-years-old too,” she said.


“Over the last 30 years we have raised £331,000 for St Peter’s, which is a truly fantastic amount.


“It would be impossible to thank everyone for all their help over the years, so many people have given their time and talents, and we appreciate each and everyone of you.


“St Peter’s is needed within our community. Please continue to help and support us, we couldn’t do it without you.


“We do hope people will be able to join with us sometime over the weekend.”

The group was presented with the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award for Voluntary Service in 2009, which is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK for outstanding work done in their local communities.


The flower festival takes place at Thornbury Methodist Church from September 11 to 13.


On Saturday, there will be a market and coffee morning with homemade cakes and more between 10am and 12pm. A concert with Cantanti will take place at 7pm to raise funds for the hospice.


There will be a walking treasure hunt around the town on Sunday at 2.30pm and a songs of praise service at 6.30pm.


The church will be open for viewing from 9.30am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 1.30pm to 5pm on Sunday.