Walberton welcome as villagers open their gardens

The village will be uniting in celebration as it comes together to host its open gardens event.

Visitors will be treated with a colourful feast for the eyes, as more than 20 residents open up their gardens during the event, on Sunday, June 2.

There will be a diverse offering on display, from modern and contemporary gardens to traditional plots.

This is the first time in several years that the open day has taken place. This year’s event will be raising funds for the upkeep of the village’s 11th century church, St Mary’s.

Gardens will be open between 1pm and 5pm. Entry will be £5 per person, with children going for free.

But it isn’t just rose beds and perfectly pruned bushes that will keep visitors entertained.

There will also be a free big picnic on the village playing fields between noon and 2pm.

Those wishing to take part in the action are asked to bring their own food, blankets and drinks and pitch up on the field. From 2pm onwards the village hall will be offering cream teas.

Sally Amesbury, one of those involved in helping to organise the day, said: “This is all about people coming out and joining together.

“I think last time we had more than 200 people visiting the open gardens event, so hopefully we can exceed this.”

She added that the event would also be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s coronation.

Sally said that children were encouraged to make their own crowns and wear them during the day with a prize being presented to the best young “royal”.

The day will conclude with a special festival Evensong at St Mary’s Church, in The Street.

Anyone who would like further information should call Peter Brown on 01243 551829.