AN Open Gardens, cake and tea, in aid of the charity British Red Cross, will be held at Sherwood House, Newton St Cyres (EX5 5BT) on Sunday, May 5, by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Mark Chambers.

At Sherwood, traditional gardens surround a quirky, turn of the century Arts and Craft home set in a landscape of magical gardens.

Sherwood Garden is a hidden treasure.

Set in two deep ancient oak wooded valleys, surrounded by pastureland and whispering forests, the seclusion is audible. ?Acers, magnolias, rhododendrons, azaleas and other woody plants are beautifully supported by banks of naturalised bulbs and wild flowers which thrive under careful low input management.

The former National Collection of azaleas will be in full stride in May along with late magnolia varieties, dogwoods and other spring delights.

Wildlife is in abundance with the variety of habitats both within and beyond the garden.

You can walk anywhere, up hill, down dale, meander over the streams, ponds and banks of spring growth.

There will be two sessions to view the gardens on Sunday, May 5, from 10.30am to 1pm and then from 2pm to 4.30pm.

Those wishing to attend by car are asked to note that there are only spaces for a maximum of 40 cars and therefore car parking spaces need to be reserved beforehand by contacting Emma on telephone 07984 672649 or emailing: [email protected] .

For enquiries also contact Emma as above.

Admission will be £10 per person which includes tea and cakes.

No dogs are permitted.

Walkers admission is £10 per person at the gate (cash only).

In the event of inclement weather please contact Emma prior to attendance.

For donations please go directly to: www.redcross.org.uk .