Hidden hoard of treasure

I don't know who it was who first came up with the idea of persuading as many people in one village to open their gardens en masse to raise funds for various good causes, but they should be applauded.
By The Newsroom
Published 1st Jul 2010, 15:44 BST
Updated 1st Jul 2010, 15:44 BST

Since that day (whenever it was) more and more villages have cottoned on to the idea, so that now we have dozens doing their bit every year.

Some do it once and then never again; others are so pleased with the results and so happy to accept the challenge again that they make it an annual event; and a few take a year's well-earned rest before embarking on another opening fest.

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We've had the Hidden Gardens of Hunmanby, Richmond, Robin Hood's Bay and Fylingthorpe, Haxey Parish Gardens, Bassingham, near Lincoln, North Stainley, Foston-on-the-Wolds, Green Hammerton, Sherburn, Leven, near Hornsea, and many, many more.

And this weekend, there are more, including the Cullingworth Garden Trail, the Hidden gardens of Hunmanby and several gardens in Emley (near Huddersfield).

Next weekend, it's the turn of Long Preston, Darley and Hepworth, the latter a small, but growing village sitting in the Pennines to the west of Huddersfield.

A few years ago, Hepworth was known as one of the locations for the TV series, Last of the Summer Wine; it also had the same name as the famous pipe-manufacturing company (just up the road in the village of Crowedge).

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But just over a decade ago, this old plague village staged the first of its garden trails.

Next weekend sees the sixth such biennial event when 17 gardens will be opening for public viewing to raise money for the local church.

It's not about who has the best or biggest garden; it's not a competition. It's a team game where individuals are happy to play their part in raising money for a good cause – and giving enjoyment to the hundreds of people who visit.

The trail, on Sunday, July 11, winds its way through a series of gardens, including a landscaped Victorian garden, a colourful cottage garden and a weaver's cottage garden.

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And taking part for the first time is Hepworth Junior and Infant School who are opening their grounds to let visitors see their wild life area, pond, vegetable plot and the other environmental areas.

Tickets – available in advance from 01484 688131 or on the day in the village – will be 3 for adults, and a map will be provided. For all the latest news of gardens open to the public, see the top of the page.

YP MAG 3/7/10

Related topics:Huddersfield