A LOCAL charity’s Open Gardens fundraising has seen a record-breaking year.

Gardens across Devon opened from April to October to raise money for Hospiscare, which provides specialist end-of-life care to patients and their families living with a terminal illness.

More than £40,000 has been raised by the dedicated supporters.

A total of 45 gardeners opened their gates and provided tours, cream teas and stunning flora to raise vital funds.

The charity’s fundraising efforts have been drastically affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and it is facing a funding deficit of more than £1.5 million.

After many gardens had to open virtually with online tours in 2020, this record-breaking year is a triumph for the community and for those who need Hospiscare’s services the most.

From April to September, a new garden opened every week to welcome the public in exchange for a donation to Hospiscare.

More than 4,000 visitors enjoyed exploring the gardens, from the traditional Devon cottage gardens to grand estates. Around 18,000 cups of tea and coffee were sipped, as well as scones and cakes too numerous to count!

Hospiscare Community Fundraiser, Susie Healey, said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to work with our amazing gardeners in this record-breaking year and it has been truly special to welcome visitors back to our gardens. We are so grateful to the gardeners, volunteers and visitors whose efforts have resulted in such an incredible fundraising total for our charity.”

If you would like to join Hospiscare’s Open Gardens for 2022 and make a difference to local end-of-life care, simply call 01392 688020 or email: [email protected] .