VOLUNTEERS in Shaw and Nine Elms will be opening their gardens this weekend.

Now in its 12th year, the charity event has raised over £24,000. This year proceeds will be split between local charities, SMASH, which matches volunteers from the local community with young people, and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

Organiser Kevin Fisher said: “The two-day event is not just about raising funds for local charities, it is also about helping bring a community together in a fun, relaxing way.”

Rob Chappell, Managing director of SMASH said: “All of the children and young people who work with SMASH have chosen to do so themselves and decided that it is time for change. Lots will have suffered traumas like bereavement or abuse while others may be being bullied at school or have problems at home or the neighbourhoods they live.”

Michele Gard, fundraising manager of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust said: “Open Gardens provide a great opportunity for us to admire and be inspired by what other people are doing.”

For more details visit www.westswindonopengardens.com.