TO abandon a garden which has taken a quarter of a century to create is a heart wrenching decision, but part of the reality of downsizing in the property market.

But one couple who are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary this year are going through the experience with a flourish. Jenny and John Hughes have decided to open their garden to the public for one last time. The couple moved from Worcester to live in the country at Stanford Bridge in the Teme Valley 25 years ago with the ambition to develop a beautiful cottage garden. They succeeded and were able to open their garden under the National Gardens Scheme for ten years, raising tens of thousands of pounds for charity until they "retired" four years ago.

Mr Hughes explained: "We now have our home on the market, but have decided to open the garden one last time to visitors on Sunday as part of the NGS 50th anniversary celebrations. It might be a nostalgic occasion, but we hope it will be successful too."

The couple's garden at Orleton House, Stanford Bridge will be open on Sunday, June 7 from 11-4pm. Entry fee £5 children free and teas will be available.