Eighties pop icon Kim Wilde is set to open a flower show at a Hitchin church.

The singer and celebrity gardener will formally open the National Association of Flower Arranging Societies' (NAFAS) Home Counties regional show at St Mary's Church.

The show is part of the church's flower festival and will take place from Friday, September 20, to Sunday, September 22.

There will be more than 40 flower arrangements at the event, which will be created by the church's flower arranging team as well as other arrangers from across the Home Counties.

The Flower Festival team: Carolyn Cranswick and Audrey Balderstone of NAFAS planning the displays with Margaret Khinmaung, of St Mary’s (centre)The Flower Festival team: Carolyn Cranswick and Audrey Balderstone of NAFAS planning the displays with Margaret Khinmaung of St Mary’s (centre) (Image: St Mary's Church)

St Mary's fundraising coordinator, Anne Senechal, said: "This will be an amazing experience, a feast for the senses with live music throughout as well as the floral displays.

"Whether you visit during the day or for one of our special evening events, if you are a keen gardener or simply appreciate the beauty of flowers, we are confident that you will find something to inspire and delight you.

"St Mary's churchyard is home to a wonderful array of independent businesses of all types and they are keen to take part in the three-day event which will attract a large number of visitors.

"Shop windows will feature themed displays and some special offerings to link with the show, a bit like a mini Chelsea Flower Show effect."

The event is the first major fundraiser for the medieval church's biggest fundraising event in a decade, which aims to make the church fit for the 21st century and a central focus for the community.

With a series of other fundraising events planned, Ms Senechal added: "As the largest Church in Hertfordshire with the biggest capacity for audiences in the area, St Mary’s has long been able to welcome important civic ceremonies.

"However, despite the beauty of the Grade I listed iconic medieval building, with large tracery windows and original woodwork, there is an urgent need to install basic modern facilities, and the appeal aims to add a servery, toilets and upgrade the heating.

"The total bill will be close to £1m, divided into stages with the infrastructure first, then each item added as funds allow."