TILSTON residents opened their 'gorgeous' gardens to the public to help raise money for St Mary's Church last weekend.

The gardens were open from 10.30am-6pm and for a £5 entry fee visitors had access to nine gardens, an art gallery and an antiques shop.

Lorna Williams was behind the garden trail which was a repeat of a similar event two years ago.

She said: 'We chose these gardens because they are just gorgeous. The trail was very well attended, especially on the Sunday - we offered lunches, wine and sales of local produce. It is quite a big thing in Tilston.'

In 2003, £4,500 was raised and it is hoped that a similar amount will be achieved this year.