Twenty privately-owned local gardens are now being prepared in readiness for the Wilmslow Well's major fundraiser of the year.
Two of the gardens opening for charity this year are in Alderley Edge.
An acre of west facing hillside garden with views over the Cheshire Plain will be open at 34 Congleton Road. There are mature trees in an open setting, many unusual plants, climbing roses, clematis and several herbaceous borders. Also a small vegetable garden, a greenhouse and a terrace with pots and old ornamental lions.
Peter Woollam will also be opening his Hough Lane garden again which proved very popular last year. The half acre organic ornamental kitchen garden with over 200 edible varieties has been featured in several national garden magazines.
It is now 20 years since Wilmslow Wells held their first Gardens Day and many loyal visitors return every time.
Helen Battilana, Chairman of Wilmslow Wells for Africa, said "The charity runs this event thanks to the generosity of supporters who are happy to share their beautiful gardens with the public for the benefit of many thousands of Africans living in rural communities.
"Wilmslow Wells for Africa has raised over £835,000 to spend on projects in 15 countries since the early 1980's. We are proud to say that 99% of their income is used on direct charitable expenditure to provide clean water supplies, storage tanks and sanitation."
The gardens will be open between 11am and 4.30pm on Saturday 30th June. Tickets with a sketch map can be bought in advance from Shirley on 01625 522552, Sally on 01625 529008 or Helen on 01625 250368. The £9 ticket (50p for under 16) gives admission to all 20 gardens. Tickets bought in advance of the day cost just £8.
Tickets will also be available to purchase on the day, from 10.30am until 2pm tickets, at St John's Church Rooms on Knutsford Road, where refreshments including lunches will be served. The charity's famous cake stall will be there too and tea and cakes will also be served throughout the day at 5 of the open gardens.
A children's quiz sheet will make it fun touring the gardens for younger visitors. This has been devised by 12 year old George, the son of one of the charity's committee members.
A detailed list of gardens can be viewed on the Wilmslow Wells for Africa website.
Photo: Peter Woollam in his Hough Lane garden.
