TEN gardens were open to the public at Lapford to raise funds for Devon Air Ambulance Trust, offering very different aspects and ranging from a courtyard to large gardens and orchards.

All except one were a short walk from the village centre. The furthest was Kelland House on Kelland Hill, a large garden with a pond and a newly planted orchard.

In two or three places neighbours had joined forces in opening their gardens. Plants were for sale at some of the gardens as well as at the start point at Orchard Centre, where cream teas were served with home made cakes for sale.

The open gardens was run by Lapford and District Horticultural Society.

One of the gardens on show belonged to Paul and Eileen Ridd who have lived in their Prospect Way home for 41 years. Their front garden included a red rose given them for their ruby wedding anniversary plus other less usual plants they have received as gifts.

Next door lives Mrs Mona Hopkins, who moved into her home 42 years ago. Mr and Mrs Ridd's back garden is full of vegetables. Mrs Hopkins has opted for seats here and there and a number of tubs and statues.