THE neighbouring villages of Stottesdon and Chorley open their gardens - including the primary school garden - for National Gardens Scheme (NGS) charities this weekend.

Twelve gardens of all shapes and sizes will be open to the public on Saturday and and Sunday in aid of NGS charities.

They include the primary school garden run and managed by local children. The school garden will also feature many free activities for young children. There will also be a planted pot competition, judged by visitors, celebrating the Chinese year of the horse.

“This is a real community event and we spend the whole year organising it,” said Tina King, a member of the organising committee. "It is hard work but the weekend is very enjoyable and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our villages.”

Visitors will be able to purchase one ticket - £5 for adults, free for children - to visit all 12 gardens in the villages. Teas and light refreshments will be served at Stottesdon Church and at Chorley Village Hall. All proceeds go to NGS cancer and caring charities.

Founded in 1927, the National Gardens Scheme has donated more than £22 million to charity in the past 10 years.

Charities supported by the scheme include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Help the Hospices, Carers Trust and Parkinson’s UK.