Abbotskerswell is getting ready for a busy weekend on May 28 and 29.

The village is taking part for the 15th year in the Open Gardens programme run by the National Gardens Scheme.

This year, eight gardens and the village allotments will be open on both Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm each day.

The gardens range from some of the smallest to some of the largest in the village, with all types from traditional country gardens to those with special themes.

The village allotments will be open to visitors; In addition to two new gardens, all the gardens open in previous years have seen changes and developments.

Visitors to the gardens will pay a £7.00 admission fee, which will get them in to all the gardens.

All the income from the admission charges, and the sale of teas and plants goes to nursing and care charities supported by the NGS.

For those who want to make a weekend of it, £7 will cover admission on both days.

The National Gardens Scheme, popularly known as the NGS or The Yellow Book, celebrates its ninety fifth year this year. Over half a million people visit the gardens each year.

In addition to the enjoyment provided, last year alone over £3 million charities supported by the scheme. It is now the largest single donor nationally to both MacMillan and Marie Curie Cancer Care

Brian Mackness, who is co-ordinating the village event on behalf of all the gardeners, said: ‘We are looking forward to the weekend; it is an enjoyable event for everyone as well as raising funds for worthy causes.

‘We are hopeful of good weather and a great weekend.’