A FLOWER festival and memorabilia display entitled 'Down memory lane' is hoped to throw some light on the history of Sydenham Damerel Methodist Church.

The planned celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary of the present building were postponed last year due to the foot and mouth crisis. They will now take place on May 4, 5 and 6.

There are few details and no photos of the original church — across the road from the current one — which was enlarged in the 1870s to allow for a gig house for the horse and trap of visiting local preachers.

Members are anxious for any information, however small, on the history of the two buildings to be included in a memorabilia display.

They are also hoping the celebrations will attract past worshippers and friends who will enjoy reminiscing.

An historical booklet has been researched and produced by Brian Giles and will be on sale over the weekend in aid of the Primrose Unit (Breast Cancer Care) at Derriford Hospital.

Any information, memorabilia or photos can be passed to John Snell, 1 Bedford Park, Bere Alston, telephone number 01822 840453.