Lots to admire and inspire at open gardens event

An open gardens event run by Maidenhead Rotary Club at the weekend (June 26-27)
​is expected to have smashed its fundraising target.

With proceeds still being counted, organisers hope they have far exceeded their original target of raising £3,000 for Dementia Research UK and Rotary charities.

Tickets had sold-out in advance for the event, which saw 24 gardens across the Maidenhead area throw open their gates on Saturday and Sunday to more than 600 visitors.

Individual garden owners and the Fisheries Residents’ Association raised additional money for charities, including Thames Hospice and Maidenhead Blind Club, by selling plants, books and refreshments. Other attractions at gardens included live music, art and craft demonstrations and even the chance to ask the advice of BBC Berkshire gardening expert Colin Evans.
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“The Open Gardens Weekend wasn’t just about fundraising,” said organiser Janet Perry. “We wanted to create a new community event for Maidenhead, which we hope we have done. We have had so many positive comments and we are looking forward to seeing everyone again on the last weekend of June next year when we hope even more local gardeners will come forward to open their garden for charity.”

Rotary president Mary Spinks and Open Gardens organiser Janet Perry.

Rotary president Mary Spinks with MP Theresa May and Jo Ayre, whose garden she visited.

Maidenhead MP Theresa May visited the event on Sunday when she toured the garden of Jo Ayre, in the riverside area.
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She said: “One of the good things that has come out of the pandemic is that people have started to enjoy and appreciate their gardens a lot more. The Open Gardens Weekend is a great idea. It’s raising money for good causes and also gives people a lot of pleasure seeing other people’s gardens and getting ideas from them. And when you see a garden like this one that has been lovingly cared for, it’s just inspirational.”

Maidenhead Rotary Club President Mary Spinks added: “Open Gardens has been a fantastic success and is an event that just has to continue every year. Thanks to Janet and her organising team, to Braywick Nurseries for their support, and to all of the garden owners and volunteers, who made it possible.”

One visitor said: “We enjoyed the event so much. Not just the beautiful gardens, which were so lovely to visit, but all the people we met, and the garden owners who were so friendly and willing to talk about their gardens."

Below: A selection of photos of some of the Open Gardens at the weekend.