AN outstanding country garden is opening to the public tomorrow (Sunday) to help a North-East charity.

Ravensford Farm Garden, in the County Durham village of Hamsterley, is 20 years old and the spring blossom this year is already said to be outstanding.

Owner Caroline Peacock, who is raising cash for the County Durham Macmillan Cancer Relief campaign to improve local services, said: "This is the first time we have ever opened the garden so early in the year but we have always had in mind the importance of achieving colour and variety all the year round."

Even visitors who have been before will see the garden in a completely different phase, she said.

Admission costs £3 (£1 for children under ten) and there is no need to book in advance.

New Row Farm Nurseries is providing plants for sale, a good opportunity for serious gardeners to obtain plants from what is normally a trade-only source.

"There will also be plants that we have raised ourselves for sale, guaranteed hardy and selling at very reasonable prices," said Mrs Peacock.

All proceeds will go to the Macmillan County Durham appeal.

Most of the garden is wheelchair accessible with some assistance. Dogs are not permitted but can be let out in the adjoining field. The garden will be open from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

Directional signs will be erected in the village.