Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s popular Open Gardens scheme begins next month and for residents and visitors alike it is a chance to explore a dozen of the county's most stunning gardens some of which are opening to the public for the first time.

The gardens all have a common theme of providing a haven for Cornish wildlife and the Open Gardens scheme raises vital funds for the Trust’s conservation work protecting Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places. Last year the figure was just short of £13,000.

Chris Betty, communications officer for Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said: “Our Open Gardens scheme, now coming into its eighth season has been growing in numbers and reputation every year and we are hoping that this year will be even more successful.

"The money raised makes a huge difference to our important conservation work and we are just so grateful to all the garden owners who are taking part this year."

Volunteers take care of all the administrative work leaving the owners free to chat to visitors and inspire them as to how they can use what they see in their own gardens. These are events that all the family can enjoy, even the dog, except where specially excluded due to wildlife. Cream teas, pasties, and drinks are provided by supporters Rodda’s, Crantock Bakery, and Cornish Coffee.

The first three gardens, opening their gates next month are: Burncoose House and Garden at Gwennap, from 11am-4pm on Sunday, April 15; Pedn Billy, Bar Road, Helford Passage, from 2-5pm on Sunday, April 22; and Higher Trenedden, Peakswater, near Pelynt the Sunday after, again from 2pm-5pm.

The Open Gardens scheme runs until September and entrance to all gardens is £5 per adult with under 16s free. For details of all the gardens involved and directions visit cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/opengardens or call 01872 273939.