Green-fingered heroes raise £70K for charity

Funds will support end-of-life services

Supporters across the heart of Devon opened their gardens to raise vital funds for hospice charity amidst funding deficit.

55 gardens opened in 2024 in support of Hospiscare, the local hospice charity for Exeter, Central and East Devon.

Hospiscare supports over 2,200 patients every year and in November 2023, the charity declared a staggering funding deficit of £2.5 million which resulted in the closure of a quarter of its ward beds and reduction of its community services in April 2024.

Supporters across the heart of Devon were determined to grow Hospiscare’s funds and together these green-fingered heroes raised over £72,000 for patients and their families facing terminal illness.

The residents of Lympstone Village came together to support this year’s Open Gardens with an incredible 16 gardens, including Lympstone Manor, opening to the public over the summer.

Speaking on behalf of Lympstone Garden Festival, Mary Turner says, “Enthusiasm for this village event was palpable, as it was seven years since our last Open Gardens. Planning started in summer 2023 with three friends agreeing to open their gardens. By January 2024, we had 18 venues wanting to be involved and the event had grown to include a scarecrow trail, prosecco evening and wildlife events.

“The support from Hospiscare itself was invaluable. From the beginning, Toni and Sharon were supporting us with advice, contacts and practical help.” 

250 cream teas, 90 ploughman’s lunches and 500 cups of teas and coffees later, the event raised a staggering £20,111.04.

Hospiscare Area Fundraiser, Toni Hiscocks, says, “All the members of the Lympstone Garden Festival worked incredibly hard behind the scenes planning this amazing village fundraiser. Thank you to all the volunteers and helpers – it was such a great success, and a phenomenal amount raised.

“All the money raised from this year’s Open Gardens will help local families in so many ways. From funding the care on our specialist ward to supporting patients and their families at home, our gardeners have made such a difference to local people living with a terminal illness.”

To become a green-fingered hero and join Hospiscare’s Open Gardens for 2025, get in touch with the fundraising team today by calling 01392 688020 or emailing fundraising@hospiscare.co.uk.