ALTHOUGH many Christians appreciate the true meaning of the Twelve Days of Christmas, its origin is not so widely known.

The song actually originates from the 16th century when Catholics were persecuted for their faith, and contains a secret code used to teach young children their catechism when it was not safe for them to practise their religion.

The song was able to be sung without threat to the singers because its true meaning was now known, but the four calling birds actually refers to the four gospels and the eight maids a milking to the eight beatitudes.

To crack the whole code for yourselves, you only have to visit St Catwg's Church, Llangattock, near Crickhowell where they are celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas with a flower festival from Friday, December 16 - 28, which includes Boxing Day when the church will be open for visitors.

There is no charge for entry, but donations can be made and the money will be divided between the children's cancer charity LATCH and the Noah's Ark Appeal for the children's hospital in Wales, where the first phase has opened. The church will be open between 10.30am to 3.30pm each day.

The event has been organised by Janet Davies of Abergavenny, a member of the Parochial Church Council at St Catwg's, and a prominent member of the Abergavenny Flower Arrangement Society.

With a fellow member Linda Garratt, she held an event entitled The Holly and The Ivy floral evening which raised £570 to pay for the flower festival. Poetry readings were given by Gordon Davies.

To complement the flowers, and reveal the true meaning of the Twelve Days, figures made of wire, and covered in cotton fabric which is then sprayed various colours, will stand alongside the displays.

The three kings, which stand about three feet high, have been made by Janet's husband Gordon.

Also on display will be the work of the Cynidr Quilters from Llangynidr who have depicted the same theme with their quilting.