A FESTIVE flower demonstration held by an award-winning local florists has raised over £500 to support Ilminster's Christmas lights.

Cottage Flowers held the demonstration at The Warehouse Theatre on Friday, November 11.

The town's illuminations will be switched on at 7pm on Friday, November 18 as part of a programme of activities throughout the day.

Over 100 people attended the Cottage Flowers demonstration, which featured more than 40 Christmas designs on stage, plus refreshments and a raffle.

Angie Blackwell, owner of Cottage Flowers, and her colleague, Caitlin Anning-Pile, showed how to make mantelpiece and door decorations, table centre pieces, planting containers and hand-tied bouquets.

Angie said: “I am delighted with the wonderful support we have had, which has benefitted the town’s fabulous Christmas lights.

“The lights are a great attraction and, thanks to the hard work of the Christmas Lights Committee, help to promote Ilminster and its facilities.”

Read more: Ilminster marks start of festive season with Christmas Lights switch-on event