6 February 2023

Green-fingered residents are being urged to open-up their gardens this spring and summer in aid of Katharine House after the hospice has experienced unusually low sign ups.

The Open Gardens scheme is normally hugely popular with the hundreds of visitors who spend time perusing the gardens, helping to bring in thousands of pounds to the charity every year. In 2022, the Open Gardens scheme raised more than £10,000.

But this year, the hospice is struggling to find gardens to take part.

The scheme sees residents in local villages open up their beautiful gardens to the public, with ticket sales and money raised on the day coming straight to the hospice to support people living with an incurable illnesses.

Whole villages often get involved, creating a trail of stunning home gardens, water features, floral borders, orchards, plantings and a whole host more for visitors to enjoy.  

Community Engagement Assistant at Katharine House, Rachel, Burns said: "This is one of our most popular schemes. People love the chance to get out and have a look around beautiful gardens, with the knowledge that they’re raising money for an important cause at the same time.

"But we desperately need more gardens! We’re urging people to take part, with Katharine House supporting them every step of the way to make sure it’s a fun and enjoyable experience for all."

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There is still time for keen gardeners to sign up to the scheme. If you're interested, visit our Open Gardens page to find out more.