SIXTY larger-than-life colour reproductions of angels as depicted across the centuries are featured in a unique festival and exhibition at Cradley Church until the end of July.

The Angels Festival is the inspiration of artist Celia Kilner. The angels on display go back as far as fifth century Egypt and embrace world religions including Christianity, Judaism and Islam.

The festival and exhibition is open free of charge to the public, along with a series of events based on the theme of angels. These will include concerts, both classical and light hearted; a Hymn-athon; an art lecture by John Travis; the A Factor – a youth talent contest; and a variety of activities involving all the pupils from Cradley Primary School. A special closing service at 6pm on Sunday, July 19, will bring the festival to an end.

Funds raised through The Angels Festival, including through sponsorship of the angels, is to be used for the refurbishment and adaptation of the church so that it can be used more and accessed by the wider community.

An Angels Festival exhibition brochure, with a foreword by the Bishop of Hereford, incorporates a catalogue and location map of all the 60 angels on display. Further information is available at cradley.org.uk.