Hospiscare celebrate a decade of Open Gardens

The chance to roam amongst rhododendrons, raised beds and roses will see hundreds flock to Hospiscare’s Open Gardens events taking place across Exeter, mid and east Devon in 2014.

More than 40 people will open their garden gates to the public from March to September, allowing visitors to glimpse inside an array of city, coastal and countryside green spaces in aid of the local charity.

This year, Hospiscare is celebrating a decade of people opening their gardens to members of the public to help raise the vital funds needed to provide high-quality care and support for local people with a terminal diagnosis.

Since 2004, 150 people have opened their gardens for Hospiscare displaying water features, fruit trees, cottage gardens and suburban havens to raise more than £100k.

Hospiscare Community Fundraiser Susie Healey said: “This year we are celebrating 10 successful years of Open Gardens. 2014 is set to be one of our best ever programmes, with 15 gardens displaying in Budleigh Salterton across one weekend being just one of the many highlights.

“Intrepid explorers will enjoy a garden safari being held at Ebford, Exeter, in June, where hidden gardens, both large and small, will be opened, offering woodland walks, with lakes and ponds giving people the chance to search for local wildlife. There will also be some very pretty courtyard and cottage gardens to explore.

“Visiting a garden makes a great day out for all the family and, with many people providing delicious refreshments, it can be a perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.”

The star of the 2013 Open Gardens programme will be making a repeat appearance at Peter Bettison’s open city garden in Exeter this July.

Peter’s football playing fish ‘Span’ caused quite a stir last year after Peter unveiled the goldfish’s ball skills - scoring a fund raising hat trick in the process.

Span became a worldwide phenomenon after appearing on local and national TV and in newspapers and magazines, and over three years has raised more than £130 for Hospiscare herself.

Peter opened his city garden in Cowley along with neighbours Mr and Mrs Pike and Mr and Mrs Churchward who between them raised £550 for Hospiscare in 2013.

Peter said: “Semperian PPP Investment Partners Group Ltd matched last year’s amount of £550 in January and have said they are going to do it again this year.

“Footage of Span is still on the internet - her story went worldwide.”

To open your garden for Hospiscare or to visit any garden in the 2014 Open Gardens  programme visit www.hospiscare.co.uk for more information or call Susie on 01392 688063.