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Couple open garden in of support of hospice

DSC_8813A hidden floral wonderland will be opened to the public by a couple in the centre of Basingstoke to raise money for Naomi House.

Michael and Junie Penfold of 8 Elbow Corner, will open their award winning garden on show from Saturday August 14 – 20.   

All proceeds will go towards buying items for Naomi House in Winchester.

The Penfolds have kept their garden as a tribute to their daughter Debbie, who died of leukaemia.  

Mike said: “This is for her - this is our memory of Debbie.”

The stunning garden is hidden down an alley off Church Square.

The hanging baskets, pot plants and water features add a splash of clour to the avenue, just a stone's throw from Festival Place.

The 50m gravel path is lined by 224 flower baskets.

Mike, 70 and his wife Junie, 65, have lived in the cottage since 1978 and have built up their flower garden over the years.

They used to open up their garden on a regular basis until four years ago when a dispute with a neighbour meant that was no longer possible.

They now are back in business, with the garden in full bloom, though they hope for a spot of rain next week to give the flowers a little boost.

“It's hard work to maintain, both of us do it - I do the potting and the design, and my wife is a fantastic plant-dead header,” said Michael.

“We really do get the greatest pleasure sitting out here in the evening, but we don't just do it for ourselves.

"Basingstoke can be such a drab town, there are only two really beautiful places, so that's why we are opening up the garden - so others can come and experience it.”

The couple has supported Naomi Huse for many years.

In previous years, they have used the money raised to buy televisions, art supplies and books.

Naomi House spokeswoman Jane Green said: “Its absolutely beautiful, right in the centre of Basingstoke, though you would never know you were in the centre of the town

The couple's support for us is very important.”

Naomi House provides support to children and young people who have life-terminal conditions.

The garden at 8 Elbow Corner will be open to visitors from 10am to 5pm.

Entry costs £2 and tea and coffee will be available.