Hidden gardens break record on money raised for hospice

Visitors dug deep for charity as they enjoyed a selection of blooming gardens, all in the name of a good cause.
With all the funds now counted, St Nicholas Hospice Care is pleased to announce that 2022’s Hidden Gardens of Bury event, sponsored by Bedfords Estate Agents and Ashtons Legal, has resulted in a wonderful £24,699 for the charity, the most the occasion has raised.

The final total was revealed at a thank you event last Thursday (August 4), attended by some of the green-fingered fundraisers who threw open their garden gates and helped make the day a success.

George Chilvers, the hospice’s community fundraising manager, said: “The Hidden Gardens of Bury event really does show off the very best of Bury St Edmunds. It highlights the beautiful gardens, often shielded from view within the town and shows the tremendous amount of community spirit and willingness to support a charity that exists locally.

“Without those willing to open up their gardens to the public and the volunteers who work tirelessly to make sure everything runs smoothly on the day, the event wouldn’t be the success it was.

“To have raised £24,699 really is fantastic. This money will be put to good use as we strive to support as many people living with dying, caring and grief as we can. A huge thank you to our sponsors Bedfords Estate Agents and Ashtons Legal, whose generosity and sponsorship means the funds raised will go even further.”

With more than 30 outdoor spaces open throughout the event on July 3, the size of the gardens on show varied, everything from colourful courtyards to gardens boosting vegetables, greenhouses and water features.

Funds were raised through ticket sales, Gift Aid and the sale of plants and refreshments. This year, the occasion also featured a raffle for which Bosch Lawn and Garden Ltd kindly donated the top prize - a lawnmower.

As well as the lawnmower, Bosch also donated a cordless pruner, and Neptune generously donated two browning lanterns.