Carpet of snowdrops to herald Shropshire springtime
Despite threats of snow later this week, the signs of spring are everywhere in Shropshire – particularly in some of the county's best gardens which are open for the National Gardens Scheme.
This year 50 gardens – a record number – will be open to raise money for charity. The programme of open days is scheduled to begin with a snowdrop walk in the south of the county.
Chris Neil, the National Gardens Scheme County Organiser for Shropshire, said one of the best displays of early snowdrops in the county was at Millichope Park in Munslow, between Craven Arms and Bridgnorth.
"This private estate features 14 acres of historic landscape gardens with lakes, 18th century cascades, wonderful woodland walks and, of course, in early spring, an extensive show of snowdrops."
Millichope Park will be open to the public on February 24 from 2om to 6pm.
The cost will be £4 for adults, children go free and well-behaved dogs are welcome.
All proceeds from the event will go to NGS charities.
Allison Walter from the scheme said: "We have a record number of gardens in Shropshire opening for NGS this year, so we are hoping it will be a bumper fund-raising year – and that the weather improves."
She said new gardens for the year include Scotsmansfield, Church Stretton, opening in May, Crossways, near Newcastle on Clun and Shoothill House, Ford, opening in June, The Croft, Ash Magna, Whitchurch opening in July and Stiggley Cottage, Stottesdon opening in August.
Other gardens will be re-opening after a break from the scheme.
The Yellow Shropshire Leaflet is available free.For a free leaflet send an SAE to: Allison Walter, Shropshire NGS, Holly Cottage, Great Argoed, nr Churchstoke, SY15 6TH.
Local business - D&G Stone Services, Craven Arms
