SOUTH Zeal is holding its popular Village Gardens Open day on Sunday, June 17, from 10.30am to 6pm. Gardens are opening in the village and along the Throwleigh Road.

There are several 'new' gardens to see this year, along with some which have not opened for some time, as well as a handful of 'regulars'. It is the variety and individuality of the gardens which makes the day so enjoyable, with everything from tiny cottage gardens to managed parkland and formal vegetable plots to wildflower meadows. In all, there are 19 gardens opening and for just £3 (children free) people can visit as many as you wish.

As well as the gardens, there are other treats such as morning coffee; ploughman's lunch and puddings; afternoon cream teas; a plant sale; and a free choir concert from Moor Harmony.

Programmes are available on the day in the Victory Hall in South Zeal or from any open garden. Visitors are asked to note that dogs are not allowed into the gardens. There is a car park in South Zeal and limited parking along the Throwleigh Road. This is the main fundraising event for the Victory Hall in South Zeal and the sale of cream teas supports the upkeep of the playing field.