THE wind and rain did not stop garden lovers visiting one of Colchester’s best kept secrets.
A bluebells and bazaar weekend was held at Green Island Gardens in Ardleigh.
As well as a chance to visit the award-winning gardens, visitors were able to walk around an open air bazaar.
Fiona Edmond, owner of the gardens, said it started off wet but turned into a lovely weekend.
She said: “We were affected massively by the weather, we had stallholders selling produce and it was a battle to keep their gazebos down, some even blew away.
“But there was massive camaraderie and there was still more than 100 people on the Saturday.”
She added: “We had 350 on the Sunday and still raised lots of money for the National Gardening Scheme.”
The total amount raised has not yet been finalised.
Fiona said: “The garden is now at its spectacular best, it’s absolutely stunning.
“It’s been described as a hidden gem and Colchester’s best kept secret.
“It’s really special and people’s spirits are lifted. It was a fantastic effort by everyone.”
The event was organised by Anne Cosby.
To find out more about the gardens visit www.greenislandgardens.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here