AN honourary trowel has been presented to the Legard family of Scampston Hall for their long-term commitment to the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

Since opening its doors to the public in 2006, Scampston Walled Garden has supported the charitable work of the NGS.

The NGS supports a number of charities including Macmillan and Marie Curie. It began in 1926 with the simple idea of raising money for charity through the nation’s obsession with gardening. People were asked to open their gardens to visitors and charge a modest fee that would then be donated.

Hugh Norton, Yorkshire county organiser for the NGS, who presented the Legard family with a certificate and an engraved trowel, said: “It was a very simple idea, but it captured many imaginations. The charity has continued to grow and flourish, thanks to the support of a huge number of gardens across the UK.

“Since its foundation in 1927, the National Gardens Scheme has donated over £45 million to its beneficiary charities, of which nearly £23 million has been donated within the last ten years.

“We are delighted to have built such a strong relationship with Scampston, and thrilled with their ongoing commitment to our fundraising efforts. It is important to recognise this support. The trowel is, for every gardener, a symbol of hard work and commitment, and this is why we are offering it as a special award for Scampston and the Legard family.”

Chris Legard, owner of Scampston Hall, said: “The NGS is an excellent organisation which has raised a huge amount of money for charity, whilst offering so many people across the UK pleasure through sharing in gardens. We have been delighted to support the NGS and are very grateful for this recognition.”

For more information contact info@scampston.co.uk or call 01944 759111.