Birchover Open Gardens: Raising money for the church and village

Dotted around the village and in the gardens were various attractions including a miniature steam engine and vintage farm machinery, Chris Fleming’s green wood working display and demonstration, Mark Eaton’s fine letter working in local stone demonstration and a sale and exhibition of paintings of local scenes, wildlife and flowers by Joanne Eaton. Plant sales and hand-knits by Crafty Green Fingers, Betulla Jewellery by Harriet Miller and Pottery by Pauline Wright were among the craft stalls. Elderflower champagne and a ‘Birchover in Black & White’ post card display and fun Tombola were of interest to visitors too. In a quiet corner Hannah Holistics provided complementary taster session in Reflexology, Aromatherapy & Massage.

Classical music was played by Emma and Sarah on the clarinet in Emma’s garden at the top of the village and ‘Songs Sung for Fun’ were performed by Ukelele Eric in the main street throughout the afternoon.

The Open Gardens weekend was established back in the 1990s and historically Birchover Church played a big part of the original celebrations, with its displays of flowers, miniature gardens and stained glass windows designed by the Artist Brian Clarke. This year the beautiful flower displays in church were kindly donated by Robert Young Florists.

The takings this year totalled just over £4,000. Funds raised will support the Village Hall/Church/Village Funds.

The event was proudly sponsored by local employers, Barn Farm Campsite, Longcliffe Quarry and Birchover Stone. Printing and posters kindly sponsored by Nigel Stubley, Northend Full Service Print House, Sheffield. There were further donations from local residents and 10 per cent from stall holders. THANK YOU!

The Open Gardens Committee would like to thank everyone who supported and helped with the event and look forward to Birchover Open Gardens 2025!

The date set for the 2025 Open Gardens is 7/8 June.