Green-fingered villagers in Foxton are set to show off all their hard work at an outdoor fundraising event.

Royston Crow: The gardens on show at Foxton Open Gardens 2017.The gardens on show at Foxton Open Gardens 2017. (Image: Archant)

The bi-annual Foxton Open Gardens is organised by The Foxton Gardens Association, of which Linda Smith is a committee member.

Mrs Smith said: “You belong to the association just by living in the village. I became a member of the association some years ago, and there are about 10 of us in the working party who put the event together.”

Organising the event starts in January and there are 15 exhibitors this year, including two new gardens in the line up.

Mrs Smith added: “One family is new, and the other hasn’t taken part before so that is nice.

Royston Crow: The gardens on show at Foxton Open Gardens 2017The gardens on show at Foxton Open Gardens 2017 (Image: Archant)

“Everyone gets a programme with a map of where all the gardens are and a bit about them which the owners write themselves. There is also Dove Cote meadow to walk through, and refreshment stops on the way.

“Some gardens have ponds and there is lots of wildlife – we’re are right in the country so there are great views over the fields.

“The gardeners are on hand to answer any questions visitors have. It’s a beautiful event and a delight to be asked about your garden and offer anecdotes and experience.

“This year funds raised will go Arthur Rank Hospice, as there are people in the village who have had support from the hospice and a volunteer lives there too.”

Royston Crow: The gardens on show at Foxton Open Gardens 2017The gardens on show at Foxton Open Gardens 2017 (Image: Archant)

One of the gardens on show is at 1 High Street, the village’s oldest house which was built around 1550. The house was bought by Charlie Lowe, the current owner’s grandfather, who lived next door with his wife and nine children.

Current owner John Gray and his wife Jan converted the barn into their home.

Jan said: “We very much enjoy taking part in this village event, visitors are always interested to learn about our plants and to hear the stories of the garden’s history.”

There will be quizzes for both children and adults, and you can also check out the allotments, which Mrs Smith said is definitely one for those interested in possibly signing up for a plot.

Foxton Open Gardens takes place on Sunday, June 25, from 2pm to 5pm.

And the upcoming Foxton Village Show – which is in a more competition style format with categories like most beautiful roses and heaviest marrow – is on Saturday, September 9. is on Saturday, September 9. For more see www.foxtongardens.org.