Volunteers selling cakes at Holcombe Court Gardens / Image: Martin Niebroj
Locals dig deep
Hospiscare’s annual Open Gardens event has raised more than £55,000 thanks to the generosity of local residents.
This year, 55 gardens of all shapes and sizes, from sweeping estates to cosy cottage plots and allotments, opened their gates to the public across Exeter, Central and East Devon during a sunny weekend in June.
Visitors enjoyed exploring the beautiful gardens, exchanging gardening tips, and indulging in homemade treats.
The event is a key fundraiser for Hospiscare, which provides specialist end-of-life care for more than 2,000 patients and their families every year.
As the charity only receives 25% of its funding from the NHS, events like this are crucial for its continued operation.
Community interest grew after Gill, a former Hospiscare volunteer, advertised for support around the village.
“Being involved with Open Gardens was a rewarding experience. Having imagined it would be a small village affair, we were surprised and delighted it became quite a large event, growing from seven gardens initially to 17.”
As well as the gardens, Gill said there were activities in the village hall, including a raffle, plant stall, cream teas, and a sale of floral art by a local artist’s group.
“We were blessed with fine weather, and the event was well-attended and much enjoyed by visitors and all those who participated.
“I’ve seen first-hand what a fantastic job Hospiscare does. It’s essential to raise funds and keep the hospice going.”
One visitor enjoyed the gardens at Colaton Raleigh so much she penned a poem, including the words: “The village gardens were open to all. What a blaze of colour, scent and form, midst a community that rose to the call”.
Plans are already underway for next year’s event, and they \hope to raise even more funds to support their vital work.
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