THE village of Froyle will open eight of its gardens to the public this weekend as part of the National Garden Scheme.

For more than 20 years, Froyle gardeners have been inviting the public in to see what they have been up to. This year there is one new garden and one old favourite reopening.

“Regular visitors will be amazed at the changes,” said an event spokesman.

On show will be courtyards, meadows, wildlife ponds, greenhouses, orchards, rare and unusual plants, herbaceous borders, vegetable plots and plenty of roses, which seem to have come into bloom early this year. Many of the gardens have fine country views and seats from which to sit and enjoy them.

Tickets cost £5 and can be used on both days, so visitors can return if unable to get round all the gardens in one go. Last year, Froyle open gardens raised nearly £7,000 for charity.

This year, the National Garden Scheme is running a garden photography competition in conjunction with BBC Gardeners’ World, so visitors are encouraged to bring a camera or a smartphone. First prize will be a trip to Mary Berry’s garden with four friends.

This year’s event will be supported, as ever, with refreshments at the village hall in Lower Froyle and a display of historic vestments in St Mary’s Church in Upper Froyle.