Moate welcomes first Festival of Flowers
Moate welcomes its first Festival of Flowers this weekend, July 9 - 11. The festival will consist of 35 stunning floral designs reflecting life in Moate past and present. These floral designs will be on display in St Mary's Church and grounds in Moate. All proceeds will be divided between St Vincent de Paul and Church Restoration Fund. The designer of these masterpieces will be the worldwide renowned Richard Haslam, who comes from Birr, Co. Offaly. He is a freelance florist, designer and consultant to the flower trade. He began his horticultural career in 1973, then progressed to floristry, serving apprenticeships in Dublin and Paris. The influence of continental design was evident when he established 'Branch Flowers' in Galway in 1986. Richard's passion for flowers and nature has brought him all over the world, his relaxed teaching and demonstration styles are known throughout Ireland and the UK and internationally his talent is appreciated across Europe, America, South Africa and Japan. He holds gold medals from Chelsea flower shows and Hampton Court flower shows. You may have seen Richard on Brides of Franc as he is the one who creates all the stunning floral arrangements for the TV programme. All floral arrangements at the demonstrations in Tuar Ard Theatre on Saturday and Sunday will be raffled, giving you a chance to own a Richard Haslam creation. The festival will begin on Thursday night with an art exhibition by local artists. The festival will be officially opened on Friday night with a preview of flowers and concert in St Mary's Church, artists appearing at the concert include Lorraine McDonald, The Brandenburg Quartet, Karen Crowley and many more. Admission is €20 and seating is limited. Saturday and Sunday viewing of the flowers in the church from 10am to 7pm, admission €10 with music recitals taking place in the church on both days. Floral demonstrations by Richard Haslam will be held in Tuar Ard on both days at 3pm and admission in €10. The festival will close on Sunday night with songs of praise by the gospel choir in the church at 8pm.