NATURE lovers are being invited to see behind-the-scenes of some of the most beautiful gardens in the county.

The British Red Cross Open Gardens scheme will give visitors a glimpse of cottage gardens, city gardens and large estates as part of the charity annual's fundraiser, backed by the Cheshire Building Society.

Spokeswoman Kate Thomas said: 'The Open Gardens scheme is a fantastic way to raise awareness.'

Five gardens in Cheshire will be open for visitors to enjoy over the next few months.

In many cases owners will be on hand to provide advice and tips on how visitors can achieve equally eye-catching results in their own gardens.

The garden will be open on June 13 between 2 and 5pm and a contribution of £3 will go towards the work of the British Red Cross.

Parm Place in Great Bud-worth opens on June 20 when visitors can look around.

A full guide on open gardens is available by calling 01772 709555.

The British Red Cross requires volunteers to help run open days and needs owners of unique gardens to open them to the public. Contact Sarah Preston on 0151 709 7799.