Fund-raising open garden set to be an annual event

Last year, Noi Monachan raised £1,500 for Headway by opening up her cliff side memorial rose garden and grounds to the public.

The memorial garden was created by Mrs Monachan after her husband died. She took six years planting the garden in his memory on her land overlooking Fermain Bay.

The project fell foul of the planning law, but after a petition was raised in her favour, a compromise was reached that allowed the garden to remain.

This year, a constant stream of visitors arrived once again, paying a £5 entry fee with the money raised going to the Guernsey Voluntary Service.

As well as enjoying the gardens on Saturday afternoon, visitors could have a drink and a piece of cake in a cafe area set up by the property’s swimming pool, with cakes donated by friends.

Floral Guernsey supported the event as part of its open garden season.

John Nicolle, from Floral Guernsey, said this was the fourth of eight planned open gardens for the year.

‘The aim is to inspire people. This goes along with our theme for this year, Islands of Flowers.

‘We’re trying to encourage open gardens in all the islands, Herm, Sark and Alderney,’ he said.

Floral Guernsey assisted with the signage and ticketing on the day. A raffle also took place with prizes donated by Healthcare Pharmacies.

Mrs Monachan said she was looking forward to making the event an annual one.

‘I chose the Guernsey Voluntary Service, I volunteer there myself painting nails at the centre.

‘We just hope to do it again, for the Parkinson’s charity next time.’ she said.