A bighearted couple are calling for other green fingered enthusiasts to open up their gardens for charity.
Michael and Junie Penfold opened up their garden on Saturday, August 14 and stayed open until Sunday, August 22.
The couple raised £527 for Naomi House, Winchester. They are using the money to buy the hospice two rocking chairs.
Mr Penfold, 70, said: “With the rain over the weeks we did not have as many people as we wanted. But those that did come gave very, very generously.
“It originally was our aim to get £200 but with what people were giving it just went up and up. Some people were giving us £10 or £20 pounds.
and Junie have been really good supporters of us for a long time.
“It is a beautiful garden and they have put a huge amount of effort into it and we are really grateful.”
Mr Penfold said that he hopes their example can encourage other gardening enthusiasts to open up their gardens to raise money.
He said: “I really hope that more people will open their gardens for charities like Naomi House in the way that we have done.
“We have a great time doing it, while it is a lot of work, it really isn't a chore for us and in the end it helps others.”
Mr and Mrs Penfold started their garden to keep the memory of their daughter Debbie alive. She died aged 15 in 1984 from leukaemia.
Mr Penfold, said: “When you are young, you can accept that one day you will lose your parents, but nothing can ever prepare you to lose a child.
“We sit out there and see her walking up the pathway. Our garden is her garden.”
Since opening their garden each year for Naomi House, the couple, who are celebrating 45 years together next January, have used the money to buy bedding, films, games, TV's and DVD players for the hospice.
This years donation will be announced at the Hospice's open day on Saturday, September 4, From 11am to 4pm, at Naomi House, Winchester.
