Private gardens in Dorset are to open for the public to raise funds for a good cause.

The Cerne Abbas private gardens will be open to members of the public between Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, June 16 between 2pm to 6pm.

Traditionally, the gardens have been opened  annually for the past 50 years, opening 48 times since 1974.

Around 25 gardens are expected to be open for members of the public to enjoy, with last year’s event featuring in the Channel 5 series Dorset Country and Coast.

Proceeds from the event will be distributed between the historical society which supports the archaeological dig in the abbey in the village, as well as the Godmanstone church restoration fund.  

Entrance to all gardens is by a single day ticket which costs £8 for adult. Accompanying children under the age of 16 gain free entry.

Organisers have said that a few gardens are accessible for wheelchairs users and most gardens accept well-behaved dogs on leads.

There is a well-regarded plant stall and teas are provided by the local Youth Club, both commencing at 1pm.

Almost all gardens are within easy walking distance of the free car park and are located on maps distributed with the ticket.

For more information about the event and tickets, visit: http://www.cerneabbasopengardens.org.uk/