First Demelza open gardens event in Welling raises over £700

Around 150 people attended Demelza's Open Gardens event on Saturday (August 8), raising £770.

Alan and Rose Raymond, who won Bexley in Bloom's small garden category last year, opened their garden at 3 Tavistock Road, Welling to the public.


One woman was so impressed with the display she wanted to take her shoes off before walking on the lawn.

As well as the garden there were stalls selling jewellery and collectable china, homemade cakes, a raffle and a tombola and entertainment from an accordion player.

The Mayor of Bexley, Councillor Bernard Clewes attended with the Mayoress, Edna Clewes.

Demelza's area fundraising manager, Terrie Kennor said: ''This was our first ever Open Garden in Bexley and it was a huge success.

'I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Raymond for their fantastic support and for opening up their garden for us.

'Without the support of local people like the Raymond's, we would not be able to care for the children with life threatening and life limiting illnesses in Bexley who now use the new hospice in Eltham.

'We are extremely grateful.'

The next Open Gardens event is on August 16 at The Foresters Homes in Tower Road, Bexleyheath (behind the Police Station) and on September 6 at 3 Selborne Road, Sidcup.

Both events run from 2pm until 5pm. Entry is £2 for adults, £1 for under 18s and free for under 12s.