Children’s activities kept younger visitors busy and engaged, while live music gave the afternoon a warm and celebratory feel. The Scouts did a sterling job on the barbecue, and the local home-made cream teas served. A beautiful exhibition by some amazing local artists added a creative dimension to the day, celebrating the natural world in a different but equally powerful way.

At least 250 people came through during the course of the afternoon – a fantastic turnout and a real testament to how much the local community cares about these issues. Two excellent local speakers shared their expertise on the importance of soil and the sea, sparking some genuinely stimulating questions and lively conversations that continued long after their talks had ended.

St Peter & St Paul hosts the Greening Festival bi-annually, with the hope that everyone gains a better understanding of just how precious our environment is, and how crucial it is to both our own wellbeing and the planet’s survival. This year’s festival turned out to be a truly wonderful afternoon, one that the church hopes left everyone feeling inspired and energised.

Find out how your church can engage in caring for creation through the Eco Church scheme – for which St Peter & St Paul Hambledon hold the silver award – click here for details.