The story of Walsingham from 1061 to the present day is being told in flowers at a special anniversary celebration starting tomorrow. Walsingham Rejoices is the title of A Pageant of Flowers.

The story of Walsingham from 1061 to the present day is being told in flowers at a special anniversary celebration starting today.

Walsingham Rejoices is the title of a Pageant of Flowers.

It is just one of a number of events being staged in the historic village, near Wells, which is considered one of the most sacred places in the country.

The pageant forms part of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the restoration of the Anglican Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham in 1931.

It is being presented at St Mary's parish church in the village, and the colourful and elegant arrangements have been put together by members of the congregation and helpers.

The display opens today at 10am and will continue tomorrow and Sunday until 6pm.

As part of the celebrations, the Anglican Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham James, and the Roman Catholic Bishop of East Anglia, Michael Evans, will lead an ecumenical service of thanksgiving.

Other denominations will also be taking part, including Methodists and Russian Orthodox Church members.

The service will be held at St Mary's on October 13. The following day, a Mass, starting at 1pm, will also be held in St Mary's.

Later that evening, Walsingham will reflect the changing times with a procession when many pilgrims will be dressing up in historical costumes.

It is expected that hundreds of people will converge on Walsingham to share in the celebrations.