ACTOR Clive Mantle was getting to know his new neighbours at the weekend when Worton and Marston celebrated the 175th anniversary of the village church.

A total of 23 gardens in the two villages were open to the public to raise money for Dorothy House and Christ Church. Village gardening club chairman Nic Stokes and his wife Joy opened their garden and one of those who popped in was their neighbour Mr Mantle and his wife and fellow actor Carla Mendonca.

Mr Mantle, best known for his role of Dr Mike Barrett in BBC drama Casualty, moved into Worton in January. Mr Mantle also appeared in the first series of Game Of Thrones as Lord Greatjon Umber.

His wife has appeared in a number of TV comedy roles including parts in Bottom and Harry Enfield And Chums.

Mr Stokes said: "It was lovely that Clive and Carla came round. They haven't been in the village long but they are settling in well."

The two days of celebration raised a total of £3,000 which will be split between Dorothy House and the church.

Mr Stokes said the event was planned after the garden club and the church joined forces to hold the open garden and exhibitions in the church.

His wife took the leading role in getting a variety of historical displays together for the church which included wedding dresses through the ages, a photographic display, work by children from Five Lanes Primary and a historical exhibition.

He said: "The whole weekend was a fantastic success and we were pleased to raise so much money. It was a lot of hard work and we were both exhausted but it was worth it."