An artist inspired by ornate angel decorations in Norfolk churches will now be exhibiting her work in one of the places renowned for its heavenly carvings.

An artist inspired by ornate angel decorations in Norfolk churches will now be exhibiting her work in one of the places renowned for its heavenly carvings.

This weekend, Rachael Long, 39, will be putting her angel sculptures, made of old farm machinery steel, on display at All Saints' Church in Shipdham.

And for the sculptor, being able to show her work in a church similar to the ones that originally inspired her to weld something other than farm animals is a great honour.

Miss Long, from Wreningham, said: “Norfolk is renowned for having ornate carvings set in church roofs. I did a residency at Wymondham Abbey a few years ago and became very interested in angels then.

“I spent a lot of time visiting various churches. I became inspired to create the pieces and spent a good few months tracking down the right pieces of metal to weld.

“To be asked to display my work in a church renowned for having beautiful carvings is fantastic.”

The exhibition in All Saints' Church is part of the Shipdham Arts Festival which starts today and carries on throughout the weekend.

An assortment of art will be on display, including watercolours, sculptures and ceramics, to celebrate All Saints' patronal festival and gift day.

The exhibition will be open today and Saturday, from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Other events include a craft fair at the church tomorrow from 10am to 4pm, a concert at 7.30pm (for tickets, call 01362 820127), and Ely Cathedral boys' choir performing choral evensong on Sunday from 3pm to 4pm.

Café Saints is open all weekend.