ABBOTSKERSWELL is getting ready for a busy weekend on June 5 and 6. The village is taking part for the 14th year in the charity Open Gardens programme run by the National Gardens Scheme. This year, seven gardens in the village will be open on both Saturday and Sunday from 1-5pm each day.

The gardens range from some of the smallest to some of the largest in the village, with all types from traditional country gardens to those with special themes. The Spring and early Summer has been challenging for gardeners but the last week has seen the gardens blossom.

Visitors to the gardens will pay a £6 admission fee, which will get them in to all the gardens. All the proceeds from the admission charges and the sale of teas and plants go to the National Gardens Scheme For those who want to make a weekend of it, £6 will cover admission on both days.

The National Gardens Scheme, popularly known as the NGS or The Yellow Book, celebrates its ninety-fourth year this year. Over half a million people visit the gardens each year. In addition to the enjoyment provided, in the last ten years alone over £40 million has been raised for charity through the scheme. Last year, in spite of most gardens not being able to open because of the pandemic, almost £3 million was donated to care and nursing charities. Among the beneficiaries were MacMillan and Marie Curie Cancer Care for whom the NGS is the largest single donor.

Brian Mackness, who is co-ordinating the event on behalf of all the gardeners, said: ‘We are looking forward opening our gardens again, welcoming lots of visitors and raising funds for the charities which are close to so many people’s hearts.’