Ref. 30796-56ST MARK'S church was awash with colour last night as churchgoers came together for a service dating back to the Middle Ages.

Earlier this week a team of 15 ranging in age from toddlers to pensioners had decked the aisle with hundreds of fresh flower petals in readiness for Corpus Christi.

On the eve of the service, Father David McConkey explained its origins.

He said: "Since the 13th century it has been customary to honour the Sacrament with flowers.

"At the end of the ceremony, it's traditional for the whole procession to walk over the flowers. This releases their magnificent aroma.

"We then walk around the outside of the church with the Sacrament, which is bread and red wine representing the body and blood of Christ."

The summer "carpet" contained four medallions representing the churches of the New Town parish, which also includes St Luke, St Aldhelm and St Saviour.

"Several other congregations also attended the service," said Father McConkey.