Along with eight other members of the HCERA, I was delighted to be part of the open gardens day on Sunday May 18th. I confess to some trepidation beforehand would people come? Would they enjoy my garden? Would it rain? Would I miss out on seeing the other gardens? I needn’t have worried. The sun shone brilliantly, nearly 30 people came to view, and with the help of family and friends I managed to see and enjoy the variety on offer at all the other gardens. From colourful country cottage style to simplistic grandeur and inventive use of available spaces, both large and small, all types of garden were on view. I was particularly pleased to see people growing their own vegetables, along with flower borders, trees, ponds and ornaments and to learn that the local bird population is well catered for in the Herbert Collins area! Thanks go to both the organisers and those kind or brave enough to open their gardens. I understand that £35 was raised for Tools for Self-Reliance.