Totley Open Gardens - another successful year.
On 16th and 17th July, 12 gardens and the Pinfold were opened to the public.
This year we welcomed two new gardens on Aldam Road and The Quarry, as well as the Pinfold on Hillfoot Road. In addition, Rowan Tree Dell garden rejoined us after a year's break.
Our star gardeners were again, of course, Danny and Isabel Reynolds, who have tended their garden for 70 years - the same number of years that they have been married. Their garden was a picture this year - a riot of colour that everyone enjoyed.
Unfortunately the allotment was withdrawn at the last minute which disappointed many people as it is such an excellent example of good vegetable gardening.
The weekend was fine and sunny, which brought people out. Altogether 412 people bought tickets; though not everyone who bought tickets visited every garden, anything between 200 and 320 people visited each garden over the two days.
£332 was made from the sale of plants at two gardens, £408 from the sale of teas and cakes at another two gardens, and £50 from the sale of home-made cards at another. All those who sold produce and refreshments gave generously of their goods and time to make such good money.
The total taken from the event was £2,030, which after expenses of £55 meant that a profit of £1,975 was made. With the Totley Residents' Association chipping in £25, we shall present a cheque for £2,000 to Transport 17.
A lot more people than the owners of the gardens are involved in making this event a success - families and friends get roped in to sell programmes, make teas, bake cakes, sell plants, do publicity etc - a big thank you to all of them also.
In 2006 another possible three new gardens may join the event, which could mean a total of 18 gardens. So let's plan for sunny weather then too!
Anyone else interested to join TOG can contact me. Don’t think your garden has to be in brilliant condition - it doesn't. The first year I opened mine I had old carpet laid down one side of the garden. I have found people have returned each of the following three years to view progress. Other gardeners have found the same - we are getting a fan following!!
If you are just starting on yours, why not join us - you will find people interested to see how you get on in the future, and will probably share their knowledge and experience with you too especially if you are a novice!
Jennie Street
236-2302