From March until September, over 58 gardens across Devon will be opening their gates to the community and welcoming the public to explore their green spaces in return for a donation to Hospiscare.
The annual fundraising event will showcase a variety of gardens, including wild gardens, cottage gardens, a newly planted school peace and vegetable garden, a honey farm, and an award-winning Victorian Fern Garden.
There will also be an opportunity to seek gardening advice, share tips and enjoy refreshments at selected gardens, including hot drinks, homemade cakes, and afternoon tea.
Laura Robertson, Fundraising Projects Manager at Hospiscare explains “We’re so grateful for the incredible amount of support we receive year after year from our supporters and ongoing event sponsor, Otter Garden Centres, who have been supporting our Open Gardens for the last eight years. Thanks to the generosity of our community, Hospiscare Open Gardens has raised over £400,000 to date and we can’t wait to see what our gardeners have planned this year!”
Through their ongoing support and various fundraising activities, Otter Garden Centres have so far helped raise over £45,300 for our local hospice!
Jacqui Taylor, Managing Director at Otter Garden Centres says “Celebrating our 60th anniversary at Otter Garden Centres adds an extra layer of excitement to our ongoing commitment to supporting Hospiscare. We are looking forward to witnessing the show of beautiful Open Gardens for a cause that holds a special place in our hearts at Otter. Our dedicated team takes great pride in supporting the exceptional work of Hospiscare, benefitting not only our East Devon community but also extending across Exeter and Mid Devon.
“Rooted in our independent, family business for nearly six decades, plants and gardening hold a special place in our hearts. Our commitment to environmental protection, sustainability, and creating a safe haven for wildlife has never been stronger. Hospiscare’s Open Gardens initiative aligns perfectly with our values, providing an excellent opportunity for nature and wildlife to flourish in the diverse gardens of the area.”
In March, over 30 of our lovely open gardeners came together for afternoon tea at Watermeadow Grange in Topsham to celebrate the start of the Open Garden programme, sharing ideas and tips for the year ahead.
Mavis Seeley from Wellington has been supporting Hospiscare for over 25 years, originally as a Trustee and now arranges an Open Garden in her village each year. Mavis explains “As a trained nurse with 47 years’ experience, I recognised a first class, professional organisation in Hospiscare. I have been widowed twice and lost my eldest son, so I know firsthand just how precious caring from professionals can be at end of life.
“Holcombe Court is surrounded by 9 acres of stunning gardens and the owner, Nigel Wiggins, kindly agreed several years ago to open the private gardens annually for Hospiscare. The Hospiscare team provide huge support for the event, including planning, setting up and on the day(s), all given cheerfully. As volunteers, we feel part of the wider team and within our village it has become a community event with helpers and cake makers giving enormous support.”
We can’t wait to explore this year’s blooming beautiful Open Gardens!
Find a garden near you and support your local hospice.
