The season finished with a bang on a perfect autumn day on Sunday 9th October when over 300 people visited the stunning Pedn Billy on the Helford Passage which raised £2,500, making the record breaking total.

This brilliant fundraising total is nearly triple that of what the scheme made just a few years ago and has only been made possible through the support of the Trust’s amazing volunteers, garden owners and the thousands of people, mostly locals, who have spent their Sundays visiting the gardens.

In all 12 gardens located throughout Cornwall took part in the event which ran from April to October. They ranged in size from half an acre to 52 acres, some coastal and windswept, some hidden away in woodland valleys, others vast estates, and some suburban treasures.

Chris Betty, Communications Officer for Cornwall Wildlife Trust says,

“We are thrilled by this result and would like to sincerely thank our amazing Volunteer Coordinators Jo Swingewood and Rebecca David and Judith Ryder, our dedicated team of volunteers, the garden owners and of course members of the public, who have supported the events, as well as Crantock Bakery and Roddas who provided the all-important catering and stayincornwall.co.uk who have sponsored Open Gardens this year”.

“We believe that the continuing success must also be due to the friendly, relaxed atmosphere at these events. The scheme, now in its sixth season is growing in numbers and reputation every year. The money raised makes a huge difference to our important conservation work”.

The Trust is looking forward to another inspiring season of Open Gardens in 2017 with established favourites and exciting new locations already booked.

Anyone interested in opening their garden or volunteering at the events should contact Chris Betty at chris.betty@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk