SIX public-spirited gardeners and their helpers are keeping their fingers crossed for good weather next month, for an Open Gardens events at Putley.

A new local tradition seems to be in the making, as the village prepares once again to welcome visitors.

On Saturday May 14, for the second year running "there will be an abundance of opportunities to see how we try to achieve Nirvana; some with greater success than others”.

Organiser, Tim Beaumont, said: “There are three established gardens, one laid out in the 1920s; one in the making, one in the course of restoration, or should that be renewal, and one adapted and personalised in the last four years.

"Putley Church and churchyard complete the offering. There are interesting sculptural features in half the gardens and churchyard and all the gardens have their owners’ thumb and boot prints of love.”

Mr Beaumont added: "The community of Putley, near Ledbury is surrounded by orchards and the apple blossom should enhance the experience; all the properties benefit from close association with them.

"From the starting point at the Parish Hall, where there will be parking, footpaths will give access to all the gardens and the church. All except one of the gardens are accessible from the road."

The Parish Hall will also be the venue for "delicious tea and cake, with the opportunity to buy plants and enter a raffle". The event is held to raise funds to help upkeep the Parish Hall and the Church.

The gardens will be open from 1pm until 5pm on the day. No dogs will be allowed in the gardens.

Further information is at, www.putleygardens.org.uk