Following the success of the first Strathaven Open Gardens Day organised by SFHHI in 2025 this was repeated over the weekend of 25th and 26th July this year.
Twelve gardens in all were open to the public, eight on the Saturday and six on Sunday and the visitors loved it. They enjoyed seeing the beautiful gardens which are mostly hidden throughout the year and the owners got the chance to show off the rewards of their labours. There was a steady stream of visitors over the two days and lots of chat about planting, planning, growing and pruning.
Teas, coffees and cakes were available at several gardens which added greatly to the feel good factor on the day. The home grown produce and homemade jams and chutney available at Iain Park’s garden were very popular and all items sold out on day one.
Visitors were encouraged to take photos on their way round and submit their best three to the Photographic Competition. These were judged by a member of the Strathaven Camera Club and prizes were awarded to the best two adult entries and the best junior one. The latter, taken by a Eva Purdie a 14 year old girl, shown centre below, was adjudged to the best of all the entries received. The event was very popular with visitors and garden owners alike and over £2,200 was raised for Health Help International
