Open Gardens
Saturday 5th July 2025 was the date and yes, it rained, well it poured down most of the day. This was after weeks of glorious sunshine and hose pipes bans- challenging for gardeners.
Everyone rose to the challenge, the gardens looked wonderful, Austwickians supported the day, the visitors came and all was well.
We know what they say – no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes and here in Yorkshire we know to get out the right clothes. Wellies were worn, umbrellas hoisted and we kept smiling.
The day didn’t just go well, it went amazingly well! A fantastic amount of money resulted from the ticket sales and the refreshment profits. Thanks to David Ireton and the North Yorkshire Locality Budget, a £300 grant almost covered printing costs, hire of the Hall, publicity and refreshments supplies.
We have been able to donate £760 to Craven Wildlife Rescue Centre and £1515 to Austwick Nature Recovery Project, the two groups chosen this year by the gardeners. This represents £2275 to donate from one very wet day.
Except – it wasn’t just the one day’s work. Many people contributed to the success of the event.
Generous gardeners, having spent hours of work and quite a few moments of worry in preparing their garden for inspection, welcomed people to view the results.
Cake bakers and focaccia suppliers ensured the choice of homemade delicious treats for coffee, lunch and tea. The customers’ compliments recognised the quality and the quantity on offer. The kitchen team, the serving team, the ticket sellers, all a band of cheerful volunteers, provided the efficient and friendly welcome associated with Austwick events. It was especially good to have helpers new to the village- thank you.
A happy event, even in the rain, the feedback from our visitors was very complimentary about our village and its community. Thank you to everyone who supported the day.
Gwen Cleverly
