“Elegant party” raises money for young cancer battlers

Thursday 01 July 2021

A country-style open garden attracted more than 300 visitors while raising funds for the GSPCA and Young Lives vs Cancer.

As part of this year’s Floral Guernsey charity events, Samarkand, Castel, was opened to the public in aid of the two charities.

310 visitors visited the garden for one day only, enjoying tea, coffee, delicious homemade cakes and a Bloomin’ Bellini bar in the resplendent weather. 

The proceeds have now been totted up and over £2,000 was raised. 

Samarkand’s Wendy Woodcock said: “People said it was not so much an Open Garden, but they felt they were at an elegant party, held in a real English country garden with plenty of hidden shady seating.”

“I organised the event with my friend Elaine who raises funds for Young Lives vs Cancer, in memory of her godson Marcus, who sadly passed away at a young age from cancer.”

“I feel very keen to raise funds for this charity and the GSPCA, as we recently lost to cancer, our beloved standard poodle, Melba, and both are worthy charities."

Steve Byrne, Manager of the GSPCA, said a big thank you for opening their garden as part of the Floral Guernsey charitable scheme. 

“We are so grateful for the funds they raised to support both the GSPCA and Young Lives for Cancer.”

“We can only do the vital work at the GSPCA with the help of amazing supporters like Wendy and Elaine, so a huge thank you to all who attended and helped at the Open Garden event.”