MORE than a dozen glorious gardens are opening to the public for the first time in a decade.

Seventeen stunning gardens will be on show in all their glory in an event raising money for All Saints Church, in Great Oakley.

The Great Oakley and Stones Green garden open day is taking place for the first time in a decade on June 8.

A wide variety of gardens, ranging from small ones full of surprises to large sweeping lawns, will be showcased to the public for the day.

Carole Willis, helping organise the event, said: "One has an oak tree planted by Princess Alexandra in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Tendring Show."

She said she is very grateful to local businesses for their support for the event.

As well as walking in and out of beautiful gardens, visitors can enjoy refreshments like Pimms, rum punch and summery snacks.

There will also be a raffle on the day where garden goers could win an afternoon tea, a guitar or ukelele.

Maps and programmes will be available from the village shop and the Maybush, and all of the gardens on the day too.

Activities will be held in the church for youngsters on the day, and in the afternoon Harwich Town Band will be playing in the church.

The proceeds from the event will go towards the church as it needs urgent repairs to the tower.

Tickets cost £5 per adult and children can go for free.

It is running from 10am until 5pm.