VISITORS to the Greyfriars in Worcester this weekend will be able to tour the pretty walled garden while raising money for charity.

The garden will be open on Saturday from noon to 4pm as part of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS), which provides financial support to a wide range of charitable institutions, including Macmillan Cancer Relief and Marie Curie Cancer Care, and also bursaries for the education and training of gardeners.

Custodian Rachel Bannon said: "This is a great opportunity to see the garden in full spring bloom before it opens to visitors in March.

"An archway leads through to the walled garden containing a beautiful display of spring bulbs, including snowdrops.

"Other flowers to look out for are Helibores, hidden in the undergrowth and flowering ornamental quince."

Admission to the Greyfriars garden on Saturday costs £1.50 for adults, including National Trust members, and entry money will go to the NGS. Children will be admitted free of charge. Tea and coffee will be available from the terrace tea shop.

The 15th century merchant's house opens for this year's season on Wednesday, March 5, and will then be open from 1pm to 5pm Wednesdays to Saturdays until mid-December. During July and August the property is also open on Sundays.

For more information call the Greyfriars on 01905 23571.