KEEN gardeners in north Wiltshire who have been opening their gates to visitors for 20 years as part of the National Gardens Scheme have been thanked by the organisers.

County organiser Sea Magee explained: “In 1998 two gardens in Dauntsey started their first openings for the NGS. This event went well and has now expanded to five lovely gardens, centred around the historic Dauntsey Park, raising increasingly large amounts for charity.

"This popular group donated £2,043 to charity last year; in 2017 they will open on June 11 from 1-5pm. Not to be missed.

Mr Magee presented commemorative trowels to gardeners Christopher and Caroline Jerram and Ann Sturgis, who started the scheme in their village.

This Sunday (April 9) Lord Methuen's gardens at Corsham Court are open for the NGS from 2-5pm. . ” The park and gardens were laid out by Capability Brown and Repton and have large lawns with fine specimens of ornamental trees surround the Elizabethan mansion, with an 18th century bath house hidden in the grounds. Spring bulbs feature at the moment, and there is a beautiful lily pond with Indian bean trees, young arboretum and stunning collection of magnolias. Wheelchair (not motorised) access to house, gravel paths in garden.Admission is £5, child £2.50.