UNDAUNTED by rain and gales as Storm Dennis wreaked havoc, visitors to Dog Kennel Cottage in Askrigg stopped by at the weekend to admire the snowdrops in one of the village’s prettiest wooded gardens.

In the midst of surging rivers and flooded fields, Mel and Steve Willis opened their garden for Snowdrop Sunday more in hope than expectation of a steady stream (no pun intended) of callers.

But plenty of villagers turned up to support the event which was held to raise funds for repairs to the damp-ravaged tower of the 14th century St Oswald’s Church.

Among them was MaryRose Kearney, chair of the church fabric committee.

“We have a lot of money to raise – around £200,000 – and a lot of work ahead of us to raise it. Events like this bring people together and we are so grateful as a church for everyone’s support,” she said.