Care Homes’ Open Garden Days Raise £1,000 for NGS Charities

Community-minded residents and staff at three Hampshire care homes have raised more than £1,000 for charities supported by the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

Around 125 visitors enjoyed open garden days at Colten Care’s Kingfishers in New Milton, Woodpeckers in Brockenhurst and Abbotts Barton in Winchester.

Each day gave members of the public the chance to explore the homes’ gardens, talk to residents, ask questions of Colten Care’s professional gardeners and enjoy homemade refreshments prepared and served by team members.

Abbotts Barton, taking part in the NGS for the first time, welcomed more than 50 visitors including the Mayor of Winchester and raised around £500 in donations and sales of afternoon tea.

Home Manager Dee Lovewell said: “I wasn’t sure what to expect from our first open garden day, but I was delighted with the feedback and the potential of this event.”

Kingfishers’ open day attracted 39 visitors and raised £300 while Woodpeckers welcomed 38 visitors and achieved £240.

Woodpeckers resident Jeanie Hilton said she was pleased to see so many visitors enjoying the gardens, adding: “We had a really nice day, it was beautiful. It made me feel happy and proud that people were coming to see our lovely gardens.”

Kingfishers Companionship Team Leader Rose Arcellana said: “We had visitors who were new to the home and some who were keen to return after a previous open garden.”

Andy Richards, Colten Care’s Landscape and Estates Manager, praised each of the homes for organising their open days “exceptionally well”.

Andy said: “From arrival through to departure, the events ran smoothly and created a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for residents, families and visitors alike.”

The NGS supports a wide range of charities, with funds raised through garden openings helping people and communities across the country.