On Sunday June 10th, 8 local gardens opened as part of the National Garden Scheme. From city chic to relaxed wildlife retreat, we learned how it’s possible to squeeze more than 150 plants into a small space, how reclaimed materials can add character, how to achieve a country house feel in a townhouse and how you can cultivate vegetables and flowers together with beehives and a mulberry tree.

Combined entrance for all the gardens is £10. Children were free and all the money raised went to the National Garden Scheme’s support for nursing and health charities. The gardens opened from 2 to 5.30pm, with tea, cakes and live music at the Vicarage, 1A Arlington Square.

Weather looked uncertain but all the properties provided shelter and there was a large marquee in the vicarage garden where tea and cake was be served.