THE scenic grounds of an historic mansion in Durley were opened to more than 1,500 people for a garden festival raising thousands for charity.

Jamie and Carolyn Balfour opened the gates of their Wintershill Hall estate for the annual Bishop’s Waltham Charity Garden Fair.

Gardeners and countryside lovers browsed more than 70 stalls of plants and got tips from landscaping expert Andy McIndoe.

The event raised £8,500 for St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group.

Morning rain stopped just before the gates opened, allowing a popular falcon display, homemade food, spit roasts and live jazz to go ahead unspoilt.

Pip Bensley, plant buyer for Hilliers and flower-arranging judge at the Royal Horticultural Society, was on hand to give out prizes to the best traders.

Organiser Joan Ferrer said a very successful day was enjoyed by all.