St Michael’s Church, a Grade I listed building dating from the 12th century, will host Bishop Middleham’s first Flower and Craft Festival from 12–14 June 2026. Visitors will be among the first to see a bespoke new sculpture created especially for the festival by County Durham and village resident, the sculptor, John Cutting, which will be displayed alongside three of his other works.
The festival has been organised to celebrate local creativity and bring together artists and residents from across the locality.
Cutting, whose work has been exhibited across the UK and is held in public and private collections, is known for transforming salvaged metal, wood and stone into striking contemporary sculptures.
Curate, Rev Rachel Wilson, said: “This festival brings together nearly a thousand years of history with contemporary creativity. From John Cutting’s newly commissioned sculpture to the floral displays and community exhibits, it is a celebration of the remarkable talent we have in Bishop Middleham and beyond. We hope visitors will discover something unexpected and inspiring.”
In addition to the sculptures, more than 20 floral displays will be coordinated by Val Guest, a Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winner whose recent work includes installations at Westminster Abbey.
Alongside the floral displays and sculpture exhibition, visitors will be able to enjoy photography, painting, sewing, handicrafts and poetry created by villagers, schools and community groups. Refreshments will be served throughout the weekend.
The festival runs from:
- Friday 12 June, 6.30pm–8.30pm (£5 admission at door, including cheese and nibbles)
- Saturday 13 June, 10.30am–3.30pm (£1 admission at door, refreshments available)
- Sunday 14 June, 2.00pm–4.00pm (£1 admission, refreshments available), followed by a rousing Songs of Praise service at 4.00pm
- Monday 15 June – private event for Age UK Durham
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
