AVID GARDENERS in the Marlborough area are being hunted by Prospect Hospice for a summer of fundraising.

The charity is currently asking keen gardeners across north Wiltshire to open their gardens to the public in a bid to raise funds for the services it provides.

With local gardens beginning to flourish in the spring, Prospect Hospice’s Marlborough community fundraiser Mike Kennedy is asking people of the town and surrounding villages to reveal their gardens in the summer months ahead.

Mr Kennedy said: “No matter how big or small your garden, there are lots of ways for you to open it to create a perfect fundraising event. In previous years we have seen people open their gardens for afternoon tea, live music and even staging a mini- fete.”

Last summer Brian and Janet Rayment from Lockeridge opened their garden for the charity and in doing so raised £953 to donate to the cause. Overall, with the opening of six gardens last year over £7,000 was raised for the hospice.

Mr Rayment, speaking to the Gazette and Herald after the event, said: “We had fantastic support from the local community on the day, and lots of cakes were donated for the event, so a big thank you to everyone who supported our event, especially to everyone who was kind enough to bake.”

People are asked to think of different and fun ways in which to utilise their green spaces, with support from Prospect available if needed.

Mr Kennedy added: “Our fundraising team is here to help people with their ideas and to help promote their events if they open their gardens for us.”

People looking to take part in Prospect Hospice’s Open Gardens programme this summer can find more details at www.prospect-hospice.net/opengardens or call the fundraising team on 01793 816161.