Hundreds of visitors turned out over the weekend as Ian and Joan Black opened their private garden at Clendinning Cottage, Lisbellaw, in support of Marie Curie.
David and Helen Bolton having tea served by Olwyn Maxwell. (Image: Trevor Armstrong)
The event, which formed part of the National Garden Scheme, attracted more than 600 visitors across the two afternoons, according to Mrs Black.
“We had so many people through, we could hardly believe it,” she said.
Penny and Sophie Neill with Alison and Innis Preston enjoying the tea and cakes. (Image: Trevor Armstrong)
The gardens at Clendinning Cottage on the Cloghcor Road were opened on Friday and Saturday, with visitors enjoying the extensive planting, music, and refreshments in the countryside setting.
While final fundraising figures have yet to be confirmed, Mrs Black said several thousand pounds had already been raised through donations, teas, and plant sales.
Joan Black and Evelyn Hassard with Olga Elliott, Julie and Charlie Little. (Image: Trevor Armstrong)
The event supported Marie Curie through proceeds from refreshments and additional fundraising activities organised over the weekend.
Mrs Black said the charity was chosen because of the support it provides to families dealing with serious illness.
Joan Whittaker and Liz Connor enjoying the gardens. (Image: Trevor Armstrong)
“We’ve seen firsthand that Marie Curie is a wonderful, wonderful service,” she said.
Entertainment during the event included performances by the Silvertones choir from Ballinamallard and pupils from Lisbellaw Primary School.
Mrs Black said many visitors commented on both the cottage-style and formal elements of the garden layout, while others combined their visit with nearby open garden events, including Colebrooke Estate.
She also paid tribute to the many volunteers who helped across the weekend, particularly thanking Pat Cameron and Elaine Stinson for their support and encouragement.
“The women in the kitchen were so busy,” she said.
“People were so kind with all the food they brought.”
Final fundraising totals are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.
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