The National Gardens Scheme has been opening gardens for charity since 1927, so by visiting an NGS garden this year you will be making a vital contribution to the nursing and caring charities the NGS supports.

Since its foundation, the NGS has donated some £50 million to nominated beneficiaries.

In 2009 some friends of ours suggested that we should consider opening our own garden under the NGS. We had visited other gardens that had opened under the scheme and thought it would be a good idea. We contacted the Regional Organiser who came out to inspect the garden and see if it was suitable. It was a really miserable day and the garden was certainly not looking at its best. However, we were fortunate enough to be accepted after that first visit.

Our NGS garden open days are very special events for us. Whilst the main objective is to show visitors the garden, we also try to make it a great afternoon and/or evening out for all. A sort of garden party for horticultural enthusiasts with their family and friends. To add to the atmosphere there is normally music played by a string quartet and refreshments including tea, cakes and our own Pimm's punch. People come to visit our garden and tend to linger for several hours!

We have about 20 volunteers who are friends and family that support each open day and we could not manage without their help.

We have opened our garden on 15 occasions in 10 years and have made over £31,000 for the NGS charities. During this time, over 4,000 visitors have passed through our gate. It has been very interesting to meet some of the other gardeners involved and also raise money whilst doing something we really enjoy.

Our garden will be open for the NGS in 2025 but by appointment only for small groups of 10 to 20 people.