THERE are two charities in Putley that require regular funding to help maintain the fabric of the buildings; Putley Church and Putley Parish Hall. Putley Open Gardens offers an opportunity for those with an interest in gardening to see behind closed doors, gates and walls. The visitors contributions are divided equally between the two organisations.

The sun shone on over 130 visitors to this year’s Saturday extravaganza. Six of Putley’s gardens were open, displaying what was commented on as diverse, beautiful and interesting styles.

With well tended Kitchen Gardens, broad sweeps of lawn and blossoming orchards to newly cleared and redesigned walled gardens there was something for everyone. Putley Church was open and the magnificent trees and walks through the churchyard were an added pleasure. The rhododendrons and azaleas provided stunning scent and colour; sculptures and structure were important parts of four of the gardens whist pools/ponds appeared in all, either as wildlife havens or decorative features. Indeed, something for everyone.

For events such as this the participation of villagers who are not opening non their gardens is as important in providing plants for sale, serving tasty cakes and tea and providing raffle prizes. The involvement of so many makes a success.

This was the second successive success the gardeners can’t wait for May 13, 2017. See you there.