Too hot? Too wet? No concern about weather this year as the 2020 ‘Marlborough Open Gardens’, one of the Merchant’s House Trust’s main annual fundraising events will be ‘virtual’ in nature so anyone, anywhere (Australia, San Francisco, Bognor?) can become involved.
“It is desperately sad that, for very obvious reasons, we can’t run the event as planned on Sunday 21 June” said James Macbeth, Events Manager at The Merchant’s House.
“Moving the event online not only protects our community but will allow more people to get involved and for some of the joy we experience in our gardens to be shared with a much wider audience. Of course, nothing can replace the pleasure of strolling around and taking in the sights and smells in person, particularly if there is a cream tea involved, but we still hope to capture and share some of the magic of this special Marlborough event.” he added.
Originally on Sunday 21 June there were to be around a dozen generous members of the public opening their gardens during the afternoon in aid of the Merchant’s House Trust.
The Pandemic changed all of that. The Merchant’s House are now inviting Marlborough’s garden owners who would like to participate in this community initiative to send them up to six photographs of their garden which will be showcased on The Merchant’s House website and also on their Facebook page.
It won’t be a competitive event. There won’t be a ‘winner’. “The normal event is not competitive, and by keeping it this way and not making an entry fee we hope to encourage wide participation.” James explained.
“We have thought about this carefully and decided not to make it a competition.”
“However, all those taking part will be entered into a free prize draw for an exquisite ‘Taste of Ramsbury’ hamper which has generously been donated by Ramsbury Brewery. We are asking for photographs to be sent to us between now and 5pm on Friday 19 June. Cllr Mark Cooper, Mayor of Marlborough has kindly agreed to make the draw on Sunday 21 June and we’ll also be sending all participants a beautiful certificate.” he added.”
To enter, click here to visit The Merchant’s House website for details.
Having a lovely time – Marlborough St Mary’s pupils are pleased to be back at school
