Blundeston church has parachuting teddy bears and flower festival

The teddy bear parachuting bonanza returned to St Mary the Virgin Church in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

The tower-top descents of cuddly toys complemented a flower festival at the Church of St Mary the Virgin in Blundeston, near Lowestoft.

The Royal themed flower festival at St Mary the Virgin Church in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Church spokeswoman Iris Mayes said: "The church was a picture with colourful arrangements of flowers, and the Teddy Bears parachuting were a real joy.

Teddy bears take flight at St Mary the Virgin Church in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"We’ve now been doing the parachuting for 27 years."

Iris Mayes (standing) at registration desk with large teddy. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

In total, 106 brave teddies floated down from the tower in a mild breeze with very few landings in the trees.

This meant many did not need the help of a long pole to complete their decent, as they were collected by an enthusiastic troop of the 1st Blundeston Scouts.

Christine Goldson with stethoscope ‘checking’ teddies. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Mrs Mayes added: "After a check-up each teddy received a certificate, and several enjoyed it so much that they did more than one jump!

The flower festival and displays at St Mary the Virgin Church in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"We are very grateful for anyone who visited the church over the weekend or who helped in any way to support the event."

The flower festival and displays at St Mary the Virgin Church in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)