A celebration of rural churches and communities that was hailed a success last year is returning over three months rather than just one.

More than 150 events will be taking place as part of the Twelve Towers Festival across 16 parish churches in the Aylsham area from June to August.

The summer event builds on the success of last year's festival which saw around 5,000 people attend 100 events.

The festival will showcase a varied array of events, ranging from heritage, culture and the arts to spirituality, community and family fun.

Organised by the churches that form the Aylsham & District Team Ministry, and in partnership with Broadland District Council, a colour festival guide has been produced to promote the event, thanks to sponsorship from the council and a Sharing the Good News Grant from the Diocese of Norwich.

The 16 churches are Aylsham, Badersfield, Blicking, Brampton, Burgh, Buxton, Cawston, Haveringland, Heydon, Lammas, Marsham, Oulton, Little Barningham, Itteringham, Wickmere and Oxnead.

Events include concerts, children's activity days, tours, beer, bell ringing, choir taster sessions and open gardens.

Revd Canon Andrew Beane, who leads the ministry, said: 'Across the team we are really excited about the festival and how it will bring our churches and communities together celebrating heritage, music, culture.

'The festival will also bring together different generations and will offer events and activities for our schools and local families.

'After last year's success we were determined to grow the festival, so we have more events and activities along with more churches that have joined the Team.

'The festival is a celebration of our rural churches and communities and shows just a glimpse of all the amazing things that happen in our rural communities, day by day, week by week, month by month.'

The Rt Revd Graham James, Bishop of Norwich, said the festival was 'a wonderful initiative bringing the communities of the Aylsham & District Team Ministry together for a special month of celebrations'.

He added: 'The range of activities is huge. May the blessings experienced be equally magnificent.'

Download the brochure at aylshamchurchbenefice.churchdesk.com/file/585528