THE gardens at 2, Hillside Cottages, Low Etherley, Bishop Auckland, will open to the public in aid of Marie Curie on Sunday.

The mature gardens of the 19th Century house, based on island beds, have a cottage garden feel, with a variety of perennials amongst the trees and shrubs. They include a wild area, fruit and vegetables, a large pond and water features together with a greenhouse with a collection of cacti and succulents.

Admission on the door is £5 for adults and £1 for children.

The gardens, postcode DL14 0EZ, will be open from 1.30pm to 5pm. All proceeds raised on the day will go to Marie Curie to provide end of life care in the Bishop Auckland area.