GENERATIONS of rose queens will gather in Bury this month for a special reunion.

It is being staged by Christ Church Walmersley to mark the end of an historic tradition.

In 1930, Miss Vera Whitworth was crowned as the church's first rose queen. Since then, more than 500 children have been involved as rose queens, attendants and page boys.

On Saturday and Sunday, June 17 and 18, the church hopes as many of these as possible will return to celebrate with parishioners. Rebecca Wardle, who in June last year was crowned the final rose queen in the 70-year tradition, will take part in a service of thanksgiving on the Sunday.

Also present will be Mrs Sally Taylor, the longest serving rose queen, crowned in 1933.

On the Saturday, all are welcome to come to a get-together in the church hall to be staged between 4.30 and 6.30pm to meet old friends.

In church, there will be displays of memorabilia while, in the hall, there will be photographs from all decades.

On the Sunday morning, the church will hold its annual Trinity Walk of Witness around the parish.

This will be the last time the rose queen walks with the congregation.

Everyone will then return at 2.30pm for the service of thanksgiving to commemorate this long tradition of rose queens. Tea will be available later in the hall with another opportunity to see the displays.

Any donations received throughout the weekend will be used to provide disabled access to the church.

Further details are available from Barbara Cropper on 761 5645.