In pre-Covid times, Rachel opened the gates to her garden and held a fete amongst the flowerbeds to raise money for the much loved local pre-school.

Having watched her three children spend happy toddler days at the village nursery next door, this community minded mum decided it was time to give something back to this much needed and well used local amenity.

That was five years ago and Rachel’s annual Garden Party Fete has now become a highlight in the Spring social calendar.

In preparation for the event Rachel potted up homegrown flowers in charming containers such as galvanised watering cans to sell on the day; arranged for local crafts stalls to come along; begged and borrowed tents for the stalls; sent out flyers advertising the event;  enlisted the help of an army of friends and family and baked for England!

On the day the sun shone down kindly, despite the dire forecasts, and local families flocked to the garden to enjoy a good chat and cake with friends as well as to support a cause close to their hearts.

A princely sum was raised and the fete concluded with a toast for the mum who made it all happen. Bottoms up Rachel!